DPM Ivanović is paying several-day visit to China

Montenegro's Deputy Prime Minister Petar Ivanović is paying a several-day visit to China. On the first day, he met with Assistant Foreign Minister Lui Haixing and Governor of Hebei Province Zhang Qingwei.

Mr Haixing said that DPM Ivanović’s visit confirms the Government of Montenegro’s support for the "16 + 1" initiative, as well China’s initiative to intensify cooperation at the local level with countries of Central and Eastern Europe. He noted that Montenegro plays an important role in strengthening stability and developing the region, and China in particular supports the neighbourhood policy led by Montenegro and respects its EU membership bid.

The Assistant Foreign Minister commended the implementation of the Bar-Boljare highway project, hopeful that it will be completed on time. He also supported the initiative by DPM Ivanović to boost cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, energy (especially green energy), tourism, environmental protection and scientific research. He pointed out that the Chinese Government will encourage companies to invest in Montenegro.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović informed the Chinese official about political developments in Montenegro, the upcoming elections and the fact that five key departments were left the opposition in order to strengthen political stability. When it comes to European integration, he emphasised taht few more chapters are expected to be opened by the end of the year.

DPM Ivanović also noted that bilateral relations between Montenegro and China are very good and that they can be further enhanced.

"I did not come to ask for anything, but to propose the first steps in areas where we have not established cooperation yet. Construction of the highway represents a two-sided challenge. Montenegro has never implemented such a large project. On the other hand, it is an opportunity to demonstrate the quality of the works. We expect the project to be completed on time. In addition, we appreciate your support for the Montenegrin fleet renewal," the Deputy Prime Minister underscored.

DPM Ivanović expressed appreciation for understanding Montenegro's initiatives to promote cooperation in agriculture, culture, education, youth and scientific research, as well as better integration of universities.

The meeting between DPM Ivanović and Governor of Hebei Province Zhang Qingwei highlighted the importance of institutionalising cooperation at the local level. The cooperation the municipality of Nikšić has already established, as well as the presence of representatives of Cetinje and Bijelo Polje, testifies to the fact that Montenegro is committed to strengthening cooperation at the local level.

DPM Ivanović also pointed out that some of the leading companies operating in the sectors with much potential for strengthening future cooperation come from the Hebei Province.