Press release: Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic meets French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy

Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic met in Podgorica today with French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy, who is making an official visit to Montenegro.

In discussion, it was noted that there was an evident positive trend in relations between the two countries, both in terms of strengthening political dialogue and different forms of cooperation. Both sides expressed interest in further development of cooperation, particularly in economic relations, concluding that following the entrance of Frances leading bank, Societe Generale, into Montenegro there was a growing interest for cooperation with Montenegrin partners from other major French companies. The readiness of the French side to organize an adequate presentation of Montenegros development opportunities in Paris was gladly accepted.

Having welcomed Foreign Minister Doust-Blazy, Prime Minister Sturanovic used the opportunity to thank the French Government for prompt recognition of Montenegros independence and establishment of full diplomatic relations, which provided the necessary basis for further strengthening of bilateral relations and different forms of cooperation.

Prime Minister Sturanovic informed the French minister of the current situation in Montenegro, describing the political situation as stable and economic developments as positive and very dynamic. This is supported by several years of macroeconomic stability, which still has an upward trend and a clear effect on all economic indicators, notably in terms of the inflow of foreign direct investment.

In addition, the Prime Minister stressed that the Governments chief priorities included acceleration of the process of European and Euro-Atlantic integration, i.e. acquisition of full membership of the European Union and NATO. Particular efforts will be dedicated to the signing of the recently initialed Stabilization and Association Agreement with the European Union as soon as possible and its subsequent implementation. In parallel, activities arising from the membership of NATOs Partnership for Peace will be continued.

Foreign Minister Doust-Blazy gave credit to Montenegro for managing to preserve peace, multiethnic and multi-religious harmony in a very difficulty period of crises in the former state, and for pursuing a constructive policy in helping establish and reinforce regional stability. He emphasized that France had high regard for Montenegros European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations, adding that it would support its path towards the European Union and NATO.

Both sides expect that this visit would help reinforce political dialogue and different forms of cooperation between the two countries.