Friendship between Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina contributes to European integration of region

Podgorica, Montenegro (5 November 2018) -- The traditionally good and friendly relations fostered by Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina are a significant contribution to the overall regional cooperation and the process of European integration of the Western Balkan countries, secretaries-general of the governments of Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina stressed at today's meeting in Podgorica.

Secretary-General of the Government of Montenegro Nataša Pešić hosted earlier today Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Robert Vidović. The meeting was an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience in the field of strategic documents adoption and coordination of the work of all services at the Government level.

Secretary-General Pešić pledged the Montenegrin Government's commitment to continuing to promote good neighbourly relations with a view to strengthening stability and encouraging progress of this part of Europe.

"As the youngest member of NATO and the country that is closest to EU membership, Montenegro is determined to provide full support to its neighbours in implementing comprehensive reforms and to share knowledge and experience gained from the restoration of independence. I am convinced that by strengthening cooperation we can contribute to better and faster reforms in our countries and the entire region of the Western Balkans," the Secretary-General said.

Secretary-General Vidovic thanked Ms Pešić for the excellent cooperation and support provided by the Montenegrin Government, especially in the context of the EU accession process. He pointed out that the fundamental reforms and good results of the Montenegrin institutions and negotiating team are very valuable inputs for the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina in pursuing their European path.

Both sides emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation between the two governments in the areas of drafting and implementing strategic documents, in particular in the context of public administration reform and the EU accession process. They agreed that the adoption of European standards and values ​​that lead to a better quality of life of citizens is a common goal of all countries in the region, and it is important to improve dialogue and cooperation in the region in order to attain these goals.