Minister Radulović in Brussels: Support to Montenegro confirmed

Minister of Foreign Affairs Đorđe Radulović, during his official visit to Brussels, met with Vice-President of the European Commission and EU Commissioner Margaritis Schinas, EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and other Western Balkan regional issues Miroslav Lajčák, MEP and Permanent Rapporteur for Montenegro Tonino Picula, and Diplomatic Adviser to the President of the European Commission Fernando Andresen Guimaraes.

The meeting with the Vice-President of the EC expressed full support to the Government of Montenegro in strengthening the fight against organised crime and corruption. It was pointed out that the EU strongly supports Montenegro in the processes leading to full EU membership.

The meeting with Lajčák stressed the importance of the European perspective, which represents the impetus for the reform processes in Montenegro and confirmed the unquestionable support of the EU on that path. Lajčák said that it was important that, despite all the challenges, Montenegro persist in the European path. Furthermore, he emphasised the important role of Montenegro in the region of the Western Balkans, adding that the dialogue of all political actors on all important issues is essential for progress. Minister Radulović said that Montenegro will continue to fulfill its obligations aimed at becoming the next EU member, adding that almost 80% of Montenegrin citizens support EU membership.

Radulović and Picula discussed the recent EC Progress Report, assessing the importance of ensuring progress in reforms, especially in the judiciary. In that context, Picula said that it is necessary to avoid rhetoric that contributes to polarization in society and raising tensions.

Minister Radulović said that Montenegro remains fully committed to reform activities in the field of rule of law and the fight against corruption, and that noticeable results have been achieved in the previous ten months, which have been recognised and acknowledged by European and international partners. He added that we will act in accordance with the recommendations of the EC, and that the positive assessments in the field of foreign policy represent a wind in the back to continue to follow the European path.

The meeting with Diplomatic Adviser Guimaraes expressed the clear support of the European Commission, which is evidenced by the recent visit of the President of the EC to Montenegro, who praised our achievements and encouraged the continuation of negotiations. Minister Radulović said that we appreciate the messages of encouragement, and that we owe our citizens and young generations to join the EU, because they expect and deserve progress and a better standard of living.