Press release: Djukanovic meets Polt

Today in Sveti Stefan, Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic met with US Ambassador to Serbia-Montenegro Michael Polt. The reception was occasioned by the regular replacement of the Principal Officer of the US Consulate General in Podgorica, and it was attended by the outgoing Consul Hoyt Brian Yee and the newly appointed Consul Arlene Ferrill.

At the meeting, reference was made to bilateral relations and cooperation, current developments in Montenegro and relations within the state union.

It was found that, in terms of bilateral relations, there was a high level of understanding and mutual readiness to promote different forms of cooperation, above all economic.

The Prime Minister reiterated his gratitude for the continued support and assistance the USA provided to the overall socioeconomic development and reforms in Montenegro. Particular emphasis was placed on the assistance in drafting the comprehensive Reform Agenda by 2007. He expressed the hope and conviction that the support to Montenegros democratization and economic development would continue in the future.

The Prime Minister presented his views on the current political and economic situation in Montenegro, reform activities and further strengthening of macroeconomic stability.

The Prime Minister made special reference to relations within the state union and Montenegros commitment to restore its full statehood. The best model would be an alliance of interdependent and internationally recognized states. In case an agreement could not be reached, Montenegro would exercise the rights provided by the Belgrade Agreement and the Constitutional Charter through a democratic procedure in the first half of next year.

Showing his appreciation for the detailed account, Ambassador Polt pointed out that the USA wished to develop the best possible relations with Montenegro, stimulating the development of cooperation, particularly economic, supported by Montenegros regained status as the most favored nation in trade with the USA.

As for the current situation in Montenegro, Ambassador Polt said that, when taking a certain action that might affect other communities, members of an ethnic or religious community and their leaders should first take into consideration the positions of those communities on that issue.

Referring to Montenegros commitment to finally resolve its statehood status, the Ambassador stressed that the USA had no bias against that issue, adding that it was up to Montenegrin citizens to decide their future in a democratic process and observing international practices and standards.

The Prime Minister thanked the outgoing US Consul in Podgorica Hoyt Yee for the successful cooperation and contribution to promoting bilateral relations and wished him every success in his new duty. He also welcomed the newly appointed Consul Arlene Ferrill, emphasizing the readiness of the Government and other authorities to provide all the necessary assistance in her future work.