Press release: Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic meets Ambassadors and Heads of EU Missions in Podgorica

Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic had talks with ambassadors and heads of local EU missions today in Podgorica, at the invitation of Dr Thomas Schmidt, German Ambassador in Podgorica, who acted in the capacity of a representative of the country currently presiding over the EU.

The Prime Minister informed the meeting of the current political and economic situation in Montenegro, describing political circumstances as stable and economic developments as positive and dynamic. He also expressed an expectation that the upward trend in macroeconomic indicators would continue and that Montenegro would remain a leader in the region and beyond in terms of foreign direct investment.

Having expressed satisfaction with the pace of European and Euro-Atlantic integration following independence, the Prime Minister acquainted the local representatives of the European Commission and EU member states with the steps the Government was about to take before signing the Stabilization and Association Agreement this October and with the measures planned for its implementation.

The ambassadors and heads of missions congratulated the Prime Minister and the Government for the achievements made so far. They voiced readiness of the EU countries to provide all the support necessary to Montenegro on its European and Euro-Atlantic journey. It was agreed that substantial potential for further cooperation, notably in tourism, environmental protection, energy and transport, should be exploited. Also, it was concluded that it would be good if the new constitution confirmed Montenegros European course, with a social consensus on core values and principles enabling its adoption in the Parliament as a confirmation of stability of the Montnegrin society and a precondition for further process of comprehensive reforms.

It was pointed out that, at the level of bilateral and regional cooperation, relations between Montenegro and the EU countries accredited to Podgorica were exceptionally good, and both sides express interest in further cooperation.