Minister Darmanović meets with OSCE SG Zannier

Vienna, Austria (21 April 2017) – Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović met earlier today with OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier in Vienna.

Minister Darmanović and OSCE SG Zannier expressed satisfaction with Montenegro's progress in reforms to meet the requirements and principles of the OSCE. They also pointed to the continuity of excellent relations and cooperation between Montenegro and the OSCE - its executive structures and institutions, which are reflected in the activity of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro and its long-standing partnership with the institutions and all actors of Montenegrin society.

Minister Darmanović and Secretary General Zannier also exchanged views on the current political situation in Montenegro, with special reference to last year's parliamentary elections and the monthslong boycott of Parliament by the opposition. In this context, the officials affirmed the findings of ODIHR monitoring mission, as a key and referent international body for monitoring the election process. Stressing the known position of the OSCE that a constructive dialogue within the framework of democratic institutions, not boycott, is a way to solve internal political challenges and differences in the best interests of Montenegrin citizens, Secretary General Zannier called on all political parties to return to dialogue in Parliament, where it belongs. He also welcomed the willingness and interest of the Montenegrin authorities to continue constructive cooperation with the ODIHR in order to further improve the electoral framework in line with the recommendations.

Speaking about the situation in the region, Minister Darmanović reiterated Montenegro's commitment to continuing its constructive regional policy and role, as well as the further strengthening of good neighbourly relations.

The two officials expressed satisfaction with the continuity of dialogue and constructive exchange of views at the high level.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS