DPM Pažin, DPM Pacolli: Recognised space for further improvement of relations between Montenegro and Kosovo

Podgorica, Montenegro (26 September 2017) -- Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Internal and Foreign Policy Zoran Pažin met today with the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo Behgjet Pacolli.

Congratulating his counterpart on the election and forming of the new Kosovo Government, DPM Pažin emphasised that he appreciates the visit to Montenegro for one of the first foreign policy activities of the Kosovo Government. DPM Pažin announced that Montenegro is a true friend of Kosovo and a strong partner for further development of bilateral relations, with the aim of stable and sustainable development of the entire region.

DPM Pažin expressed hope that the institutions of Kosovo will soon find a model for completing the process of ratification of the Kosovo-Montenegro Border Agreement, adding that Montenegro expects the official position of the Kosovo Government on this issue. In this context, he said that understanding and patience are the approach that Montenegro represents in relation to regional policy. DPM Pažin said that the signing of the Agreement in Vienna in 2015 was a confirmation of very good relations that we are continuously building and nurturing, and that such an intensity of relations should be expected in the following period. He explained that Montenegro closely monitors and supports the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, as well as efforts made by both sides in this direction, the more so as these issues are reflected on the overall regional context, the stability and prosperity of the region.

Kosovo's DPM Pacolli empshasised that good-neighborly relations are one of the priorities of the new Kosovo Government. He also presented the goals of this country's foreign policy, stressing the importance of developing political, economic and overall relations with Montenegro. Inviting DPM Pažin to pay a visit to Kosovo, DPM Pacolli pointed out that he highly appreciates what Montenegro has done for the people of Kosovo, announcing the feelings of a personal friendly attitude towards our country.

The officials identified a space for improving cooperation in a number of areas of importance for the citizens of the two countries, including the affirmation of the position of the Montenegrin minority in Kosovo. They agreed to pay more attention to economic issues in the coming period, as there is a considerable potential in the relations between the two countries.