Ibrahimović-Craxi: Strong Italian support for the European path, Montenegro a leader in the region

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Ervin Ibrahimović met today in Podgorica with the President of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee of the Senate of the Republic of Italy Stefania Craxi.

During the discussion, it was noted that Montenegro and Italy cultivate traditionally good political and economic relations, founded on a strong alliance within NATO, with the conviction that there is significant potential for the advancement of cooperation in numerous areas, including the economy, investments, tourism, transport, and defense.

Minister Ibrahimović expressed gratitude for Italy's continuous political and expert support on the path to EU membership. Recalling the successful results in the European integration process over the past year, the Minister highlighted the planned activities that Montenegro is implementing in accordance with the reforms from the EU agenda.

"Considering the expectations of our citizens, we have outlined an ambitious but realistic plan to maintain the reform momentum and become a new member of the Union by 2028," stated Ibrahimović, emphasizing the importance of Italy assuming the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of that year. He emphasized that EU enlargement is significant not only for the region but also for Europe, especially in the context of current geopolitical challenges.

Craxi highlighted that the enlargement policy represents one of Italy's key foreign policy priorities and praised our country as a leader in the European integration process in the Western Balkans.

"Montenegro has an important role and great responsibility in the region," stated Ms. Craxi, adding that the Balkans, as a crossroads of cultures, can also be a sensitive area for potential destabilizing influences. "Peace, stability, and prosperity of the Western Balkans represent a common interest," concluded Ms. Craxi.

The interlocutors exchanged views on current regional and global issues, emphasizing the importance of preserving the unity of the European Union, as well as the need to strengthen Europe's security and its role on the global stage.