FM Darmanović at Ministerial Council in Bratislava: Montenegro is committed to open dialogue and respect for OSCE values

Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović took participation at the 26th session of the Ministerial Council, which is being held in Bratislava today and tomorrow.

The focus of this year’s Ministerial Council, which is attended by more than forty ministers, is the reduction of the conflicts consequences, the fight against radicalisation and terrorism, strengthening of the OSCE capacity and the contribution of the Organisation in achieving sustainable development goals.

During his presentation, Minister Darmanović emphasised that the OSCE significantly contributes to the security of the Western Balkans, including Montenegro, though numerous assistance projects, including arms control and disarmament.

"With the needful system of field missions, independent institutions and a multidimensional approach to the security, I am convinced that the OSCE represents a unique platform for dialogue and cooperation, which has comprehensive tool for prevention of conflict, mediation and reconciliation," Minister Darmanović stated.

In this regard, the Minister highlighted strong commitment of Montenegro to an open, inclusive and constructive dialogue with all actors at national and international level. Speaking about the crisis in the Ukraine, he pointed out the encouraging progress made in that country and that withdrawing military forces from certain areas presents a positive step towards finding a permanent peaceful solution. Bearing in mind further challenges in Ukraine, Minister Darmanović noted that the OSCE today, is of a crucial significance for dialogue based on the principles of the Organisation.

At the sidelines of the Ministerial Council, the Head of Montenegrin diplomacy talked to the ministers of foreign affairs of Austria Alexander Schallenberg, Ireland Simon Coveney, the Netherlands Stef Block, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Marina Sereni, Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of France Jean Baptiste Lemoyne and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Finland Matti Anttonen.

PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO