Minister Radulović with Eichhorst: Montenegro represents highly valued EU partner

Minister of Foreign Affairs Đorđe Radulović had a phone conversation today with Director for Western Balkans, Turkey and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the European External Action Service (EEAS) Angelina Eichhorst. Minister Radulović pointed out that Montenegro highly values EU support hitherto, especially in context of our aspirations, having in mind that membership in European family remains a key foreign policy priority. He also emphasized that the Government of Montenegro completely understand that the Negotiation Chapters 23 and 24 represents a corner stone of the comprehensive social development and democratic capacity of society, thus approaching towards all matters relating to the legislative framework within this domain with a special attention and sensibility.

Head of Montenegrin diplomacy informed his interlocutor that our country is completely aligning its positions with EU policies, and that it represents a confirmation of our dedication and commitment on our European path. He also reminded that Montenegro has accepted the new methodology when it comes to EU accession negotiations as a clear signal to our European partners that we are completely prepared to put all our efforts in finalizing the negotiation process in a qualitative manner.

Commenting about seriousness of the epidemiological situation in our country, Minister Radulović acknowledged the consistent help provided by means of EU donations, pointing out that “EU has confirmed once again that it is a genuine friend to the Western Balkans region”.

As highlighted, assistance in securing a certain number of vaccine doses by the EU at its earliest opportunity would be of crucial importance in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic consequences.

Director Eichhorst congratulated to Foreign Minister Radulovic on assuming the office, emphasizing that the Western Balkans remains in focus of the European foreign policy agenda. On that line, as conveyed, EU values Montenegro for being a country that progressed the most in the integration process, agreeing with the interlocutor that the rule of law, judiciary independence, and fight against corruption represents the bedrock of social progress. Bringing to the attention the concern about the absence of consultation and dialogue with European partners regarding the announced changes of the Law on the State Prosecutors, Director Eichhorst expressed the hope that our country will continue the initiated reforms with the objective of joining the European Union in the near future.

Interlocutors also discussed actual domestic course of events, as well as in the region and the EU. Both sides agreed to continue intensive communication regarding the key issues and planning of organization of reciprocally visits as soon as circumstances allow, having in mind COVID-19 pandemic.