PMs Marković, Orban: Montenegrin-Hungarian relations are at highest level characterised by alliance in NATO, EU integration cooperation

Podgorica, Montenegro (24 July 2018) -- Prime Ministers of Montenegro and Hungary, Duško Marković and Viktor Orban, told a press conference following their official talks in Podgorica earlier today that relations between the two countries are at the highest level, characterised by the alliance in NATO, European integration cooperation and the extraordinary room for investing in the Montenegrin economy.

"I can say that our relations are at the highest level. They are characterised by the alliance in NATO, cooperation in the field of European integration and constant rise in potential economic cooperation," said Prime Minister Marković.

He pointed out that Montenegro appreciates the support of Hungary when it comes to Montenegro’s EU bid and their willingness to help at the expert level and share their experience.

"The EU is an absolute priority for us, a strategic goal we are fully committed to and is very important for both us and Europe. We will continue to work towards adoption of values, implementation of reforms, and the strengthening of democracy. The most complex phase of integration is ahead of us and with the support of our partners, we will be ready to face all obligations," Prime Minister Marković emphasised, adding: "We have exchanged opinions on various topics that are present today from the aspect of security in the region as well as in Europe. Montenegro has set up mechanisms to preserve its security, but at the same time it contributes to regional and wider global security."

Montenegro welcomes the interest of Hungary to promote the strengthening of the Hungarian investments in Montenegro and the overall strengthening of economic cooperation.

"Hungarian investors are welcome, Montenegro is becoming more and more attractive to companies from all over the world and we are especially looking forward to see our partners and friends, such as Hungary, recognise that they can use it in mutual interest," the Prime Minister of Montenegro underscored.

Pointing out that official talks with Montenegro are important for Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orban stressed that there are no strategic or tactical opposites between Montenegro and Hungary, and that this is precisely the reason for conducting very open talks.

He also congratulated Montenegro on NATO membership.

"You have not chosen only an organisation, but your future as well. Hungarians are also part of that future, as we are a NATO member. I see real opportunities for Montenegro to become a member and EU soon ... I can say that Montenegro is essentially ready for membership in the EU."

Expressing satisfaction with the tendency of the Hungarian business people to invest in the countries of the region, Prime Minister Orban stressed that room for investment exists in Montenegro.

"Great opportunities are ahead of us. We will be glad to take part in modernising the Montenegrin economy," said Prime Minister Orban.

The Hungarian Prime Minister told the press that today’s talks also addressed migration and concluded:

"I told the PM Marković that if they have issues with migrants, Hungary is willing to help, because when Montenegro defends its borders, it does not only defend Montenegro but Hungary and the entire EU as well."