Press release: Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic meets French Ambassador to State Union Hugues Pernet

Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic met today in Podgorica with French Ambassador to the State Union Hugues Pernet, as part of Mr Pernets official visit to Montenegro.

At the meeting, reference was made to current developments in Montenegro, relations in the State Union and regional situation in the Western Balkans. The two officials recognized an upward trend in bilateral relations, mirrored both in an enhanced political dialogue and other aspects of cooperation, notably economic.

Prime Minister Djukanovic acquainted Ambassador Pernet with the economic and political situation in the Republic and pointed out the macroeconomic results demonstrating that this years economic policy was being successfully implemented.

Referring to relations in the State Union, the Prime Minister placed emphasis on Montenegros proposal to restructure the relationship with the Republic of Serbia into an alliance of independent and internationally recognized states. He stressed that the process of resolving Montenegros statehood status would be conducted in compliance with international practice and recognized European standards, observing international partners recommendations. He added that Montenegro would use the rights enshrined in the Belgrade Agreement and the Constitutional Charter and that it was willing to open dialogue and cooperation with all stakeholders in the process.

Prime Minister Djukanovic informed the French Ambassador of his recent meeting with UN Secretary Generals Special Envoy for Kosovo Martti Ahtisaari, which he said had been very useful and constructive.

Ambassador Pernet thanked the Prime Minister for the assessments and views he had presented, emphasizing that France recognized the legitimacy and commitment of Montenegros state authorities to define the countrys final statehood and international status, through a democratic procedure, in compliance with international standards and with evident concern for regional stability.