Press release: Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic meets US Ambassador to Montenegro Roderick Moore

Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic met today in Podgorica with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States to Montenegro, Mr. Roderick Moore.

Prime Minister Sturanovic welcomed Ambassador Moore, congratulated him on his appointment and wished him every success in his future work. He recalled the history of traditional friendship between the two coutnreis and emphasized that the partnership with the United States was a matter of strategic importance to Montenegro. In addition, the Prime Minister pointed out that political relations with the USA were characterized by a high level of understanding, as confirmed through a series of treaties, as well as a mutual interest in promoting all-round bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Sturanovic used the opportunity to thank the United States, once again, for promptly recognizing the nature of contemporary developments in Montenegro and for making an invaluable contribution to democratic, political, economic and other reforms. In the longer term, the American administration, i.e. the American people, have given a great support to overall processes in Montenegro, showing consideration for its reformist course, its constructive role and position in the region, and its contribution to the stability and safety of the region.

Prime Minister Sturanovic emphasized that European and Euro-Atlantic integration was Montenegros strategic priority and noted that Montenegro was highly appreciative of the US supports provided so far and considered such cooperation extremely important for its progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration.

Furthermore, interest was expressed in strengthening economic cooperation with US partners and encouraging their presence in developmental projects in Montenegro. He also voiced interest in further reinforcing cooperation and support to Montenegro through USAIDs programs of building a strong investment climate, supporting local economic development, strengthening democracy and economic stability.

Having thanked the Prime Minister for the cordial welcome, Ambassador Moore pointed out that Montenegros achievements, both internal and international, were praiseworthy, adding that the country was on the right track. He confirmed that the United States supported Montenegros efforts on its path of European and Euro-Atlantic integration and promised further US support and assistance to Montenegros constructive role and its position of a regional stability factor. According to him, the past experience with Montenegro had confirmed that Montenegro was a serious and reliable partner which could serve as a role model for the region.

Both sides agreed that the Montenegrin Embassy in Washington and the US Embassy in Podgorica would encourage and promote the bilateral relations even further.