Ivanović, Lipavský: Czech Republic strongly supports Montenegro’s European integration

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today in Podgorica with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic Jan Lipavský. The meeting served as an opportunity to reaffirm the strong bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and to express their mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation. 

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović expressed his gratitude to the Czech Republic for its continuous support of Montenegro’s European integration, emphasizing that EU membership remains the country’s key strategic goal.

It is crucial that enlargement remains a priority of EU policy and that global developments do not divert attention from the integration process. Montenegro remains dedicated to fulfilling all reform requirements and maintaining its status as a frontrunner in the accession process. Our country aims to join the EU not through shortcuts, but solely through deserved progress in reforms, Ivanović stated. 

Minister Lipavský reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s full support for EU enlargement, emphasizing that the process must be merit-based and contingent on the fulfillment of accession criteria.

Economic cooperation was also a key focus of the discussions, with Minister Lipavský highlighting significant potential for advancing cooperation, particularly in the fields of defence industry, tourism, and investment. 

Another topic of discussion was the possibility of opening a Montenegrin diplomatic mission in Prague, which would further strengthen bilateral ties and facilitate future cooperation. 

The officials also exchanged views on security challenges and current global developments, reaffirming their commitment to NATO alliance and underscoring the importance of enhancing European security. Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović emphasized the vital role of diplomatic efforts in bringing an end to the war in Ukraine, stressing that the key to ensuring long-term stability in Europe lies in preserving EU unity and maintaining a proactive role in dialogue with strategic partners. 

Both sides concluded that Montenegro and the Czech Republic will continue to foster close cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, including economic relations, tourism, education, and defence. Minister Lipavský reaffirmed that the Czech Republic will remain a reliable partner to Montenegro on its path to EU membership.