PM Marković - US Vice President Pence: US fully supports Montenegro's politics and reforms

Washington, USA (5 June 2017) -- Prime Minister Duško Marković met today with the US Vice President Mike Pence. The meeting discussed in particular Montenegro's formal membership in the North - Atlantic Alliance which will additionally boost strategic partnership between the US and Montenegro.

Vice President Pence congratulated Montenegro on joining NATO on behalf of the US president Donald Trump and his own, noting that it is a historic achievement for the country.

"It is an honour to talk to you in this historic moment for your country. This day and your membership in the Alliance proofs that NATO's door remain open," Vice President Pence emphasised.

PM Marković agreed that Montenegro's membership in NATO is a historic moment for the country, particularly voicing gratitude to the US and American people, the US president Trump, Vice President Pence, State Secretary Rex Tillerson, the Senate and State Department for the support given to Montenegro during the whole NATO accession process, particularly during its final stage. 

"We wouldn't achieve this goal without your support. It is very significant for us and it's a confirmation that our friendship and partnership is long - lasting and eternal," PM Marković said to Vice President Pence.

PM Marković convinced the Vice President Pence that Montenegro is ready and capable of taking over responsibilities and requirements arising within the NATO membership. 

"We remain strongly committed to work together in dealing with all contemporary challenges shaking the world. Montenegro is ready to participate in all missions aimed at overcoming those challenges," PM Marković highlighted.
Speaking of the situation in Montenegro, PM Marković said that the country has gone through a very difficult period during the last few years by confronting the Russian pressure, but that it managed to resist and respond to those challenges. 

When it comes to the forthcoming reforms, PM Markovć stressed that Montenegro will make additional efforts in implementing the ones related to the rule of law, boosting the business environment and valorisation of the country's potentials, adding that the first results in terms of fiscal reform are encouraging. PM Marković thanked the US for the support provided so far in the reform process, noting that the country's achievements have shown that it is a time for the arrival of serious American investors to Montenegro. 

Vice President Pence congratulated Montenegro on leadership in the reform process, adding that the US strongly supports the Euro - Atlantic integration of our country, particularly when it comes to the continuation of reform process in the rule of law. 

"We are convinced that with your leadership Montenegro will remain our ally and partner, and that this policy will also encourage the others," Vice President Pence emphasised. 

PM Marković particularly highlighted the need for the presence of American politics not only in Europe, but also in the region of Western Balkans.