FM Darmanović in Skopje: Europe remains committed to Western Balkans and its European perspective

Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović took part in a meeting of foreign ministers, within the Berlin Process, which was co-chaired by the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia in Skopje. The meeting was attended by Heads of Diplomacy of the Western Balkans Six, representatives of EU Member States participating in the Initiative, as well as representatives of the European Commission, the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Regional Centre for Cooperation (RCC).

During the plenary session on "European perspective of the Western Balkans," Minister Darmanović pointed to the significance of the EU presence in the Western Balkan region and the results that Montenegro has achieved in the process of the European integration.

Montenegro remains firmly on its European path. This path has no alternative and it is a guarantee of stability in the region as well as the successful framework for implementation of reforms, Minister Darmanović noted.

Speaking about the European future of the region, the Head of Montenegrin diplomacy reiterated that the enlargement process is one of the most successful EU policies, which has given concrete results in reforming our societies, democratic and economic prosperity. Therefore, the continuation of the integration process is crucial for safety of the Western Balkans and beyond, Darmanović pointed out. The minister stressed that Montenegro remains committed to regional co-operation, as one of the pillars of foreign policy, and recalled the country's support for its neighbours on their European path.

The event was also an opportunity to look at the progress made within the Berlin process. The participants agreed that this Initiative is an important framework for cooperation, and that infrastructure, youth, scientific cooperation and innovation, above all, strengthen neighbours’ ties and contribute to the economic development of the Western Balkan countries. The results of the cooperation so far pointed to the need to maintain continuity and further fulfilment of the undertaken commitments, and confirm the necessary European presence in the Region. The meeting highlighted the commitment to the EU Green Agenda, as a key platform for tackling climate change.

Within today's meeting, Minister Darmanović also participated in a panel that exchanged views on linking the Region, economic progress and environmental protection.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
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