PM Marković: We will not answer Serbian church using more offensive language, but nobody will force us to change our fundamental policies

Podgorica, Montenegro (25 July 2018) -- Prime Minister Duško Marković described the statement made by Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church Irinej as unacceptable and disgraceful, stressing that Montenegro will not use more offensive language, but will continue to build its dignity. He added that Montenegro will not review its decision on membership in NATO, or revoke recognition of the countries it has recognised, nor will anyone stop its path towards EU and its decision to build the country on the basis of multiethnicity and multiconfessionalism.

"Some people would turn this statement into a general war and conflict. This is not a moment to use even more offensive language. We will instead continue to strengthen the dignity of Montenegro and its overall state-building character. This is not to be done by returning poisonous arrows, but by enabling systematic and responsible strengthening of institutions and trust in one's own country. This is not the first attack on Montenegro from this address. Unfortunately, instead of sending messages of peace, coexistence and dialogue, they are sending conflicting messages that are politically designed to stop Montenegro on its path to democratisation, freedom and sovereignty. We will not review our decision on membership in NATO, or revoke recognition of the countries we have recognised, nor will anyone stop our path towards EU and our determination to continue to build our State as a multiethnic and multireligious society as a basis of its value and existence. In that regard, I am now even more convinced that the law on religious freedom must be put on the table as quickly as possible in order to solve this issue in the society," Prime Minister Duško Marković told the press answering a question by Al Jazeera Balkans. He added that he is certain that this Government will propose the law.

PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO