Spajić, O’Brien: Montenegro as a cohesive factor in the Western Balkans

Montenegro stands as a factor of stability and a reliable ally to the United States in the Western Balkans, as highlighted in the meeting between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien.

One of the topics discussed was the Growth Plan, which brought together leaders from the Western Balkans and the European Union in Montenegro to discuss a support package worth six billion euros in grants and concessional loans.

Prime Minister Spajić emphasised that Montenegro has prepared a very ambitious reform plan aimed at enhancing integration with the European Single Market. He stated that the Growth Plan is one of the most crucial initiatives for Montenegro, which will transition from a market of half a million to a market of half a billion people.

With each passing day, Montenegro further validates its international credibility, and with each reform, it moves closer to a tangible European perspective, stated Spajić.

Assistant Secretary O'Brien expressed satisfaction with the dynamic interactions with Prime Minister Spajić and noted that Montenegro is undoubtedly progressing towards EU membership, with full support from the United States.

Montenegro is a reliable NATO member and, I am confident, will also be a future EU member, providing strong support to the region, emphasised O'Brien.

During the meeting, ongoing developments were discussed, and the importance of dialogue among Western Balkan leaders in achieving common interests was highlighted.

The summit held today in Kotor was also recognised as a valuable opportunity to strengthen neighbourly cooperation.