Press release: Djukanovic meets Gowan

Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic met today in Podgorica with Non-Resident Ambassador of Great Britain to Montenegro David Gowan, as part of Mr Gowans farewell visit to Montenegro.

Prime Minister Djukanovic reiterated his satisfaction with the level of bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing interest in their further intensification. He noted that the British Governments prompt recognition of Montenegros independence and establishment of diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level created conditions for developing various forms of cooperation.

The Prime Minister stressed that the new Government of Montenegro, as a government of continuity, would continue to focus on stronger political stability, development of a multiethnic democratic society, economic development and further strengthening of macroeconomic stability. In terms of foreign policy, emphasis will be placed on quicker European and Euro-Atlantic integration, including the finalization of a Stabilization and Association Agreement with the European Union by the end of the year and admission to Partnership for Peace Program at NATOs Summit in Riga, as well as eventual full membership of those organizations.

Ambassador Gowan commended the Government and other institutions for successful resolution of internal development issues and efforts towards European and transatlantic integration. He emphasized that Montenegro had a clear path to integration ahead of it, adding that it could count on Great Britains strong support in that process.

In addition, Mr Gowan stressed that Montenegro had played a role of an important stability factor in the region. He noted that last weeks visit by head of Kosovos interim government Agim Cheku was a natural and positive step, in which the Government acted in a careful and well-balanced manner.

The Prime Minister thanked Ambassador Gowan for his dedicated work and outstanding personal contribution to the development of relations and cooperation between the two counties. He noted that the results achieved so far formed a good basis for the work of a future ambassador, who would be appointed on a residential basis, which was welcomed with great pleasure.