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FM Darmanović takes part in EU - Western Balkans C...
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FM Darmanović takes part in EU - Western Balkans Conference: Cooperation and solidarity are essential for overcoming socio - economic consequences of Covid – 19
Published on: May 19, 2020 • 10:36 PM Author: PR Service
Minister of Foreign Affairs prof. Dr. Srđan Darmanović took part earlier today in the conference of heads of diplomacy of the Western Balkans and neighbouring EU member states, which was organised by Foreign Minister of the Hellenic Republic Nikos Dendias and Foreign Affairs Minister of North Macedonia Nikola Dimitrov.
The meeting, which was also addressed by EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi and Secretary General of the European External Action Service Helga Maria Schmid, noted that cooperation and solidarity of the Western Balkans and the EU are essential for managing the socio-economic consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. Heads of Diplomacy particularly addressed the significance of cross-border travel and transport of goods, as well as mutual assistance to the development of the economy.
Minister Darmanović emphasised that the EU has demonstrated that, regardless of all challenges, it is the strongest when it acts united, proving that unity and solidarity are the greatest value, woven into the essence of the European project, which, for us, has no alternative.
- The EU proved that even in the most difficult times, it did not forget the Region. The fact that the EU allocated EUR 3.3 billion for the Western Balkans in order to mitigate the negative effects of the crisis, as well as the numerous other aid mechanisms made available to our countries, which are not only significant from a humanitarian point of view, but they are a clear sign of importance that the Union gave to our region, the Head of Montenegrin diplomacy pointed out.
Minister Darmanović highlighted that now we must create conditions for normalisation of the lives of citizens, while respecting epidemiological recommendations, in order to keep the virus under control. On that line, he added that Montenegro is well on its path to becoming the first country without the coronavirus.
- If we are wise enough, Montenegro will be the last country to register the case of coronavirus and the first country without the coronavirus in Europe, the Foreign Minister stressed.
Minister Darmanović noted, pointing to the importance of tourism for Montenegro, that the EC recommendations play an important role in further steps for the successful suspension on travel restrictions and the reopening of the tourism industry. On that line, he assessed the readiness of the EC to include the Region in the implementation of the Joint European Roadmap towards lifting COVID-19 containment measures, as another opportunity that will have a long - termpositive impact on our lives, countries and economies.
The Head of Montenegrin diplomacy emphasised that the gradual opening of borders is a precondition for economic recovery, pointing out that this process should take place in a synchronized manner and in line with national measures.
Cooperation, solidarity and trust are the principles that we should be guided by, in order to mitigate the consequences of this crisis and avoid the "second wave" of the virus.
It is necessary to strengthen cooperation and coordination in the fields of health and traffic, with measures of control and management of border crossings, Minister Darmanović concluded, estimating that this approach will be for the benefit of all countries.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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