Montenegro a strategic partner for Italy, unwavering support for EU integration

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met today in Podgorica with Antonio Tajani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, during Tajani's official visit to Montenegro.

The meeting emphasised the strong historical ties, friendly and allied relations, and comprehensive bilateral cooperation between Montenegro and Italy.

The discussions we had, along with the visit itself, reaffirm the commitment of both Montenegro and Italy to bilateral cooperation and the continuous development of our intergovernmental relations, as well as strengthening high-level political dialogue. Montenegro deeply values Italy's support for our European path, as demonstrated through Italy's proactive and vital role in the 'Friends of the Western Balkans' group, Ibrahimović stated. He reiterated that European and Euro-Atlantic values are a strategic commitment of the Montenegrin government, and he expressed his appreciation for Italy's clear and unequivocal support for Montenegro’s integration into the European Union. It is gratifying to see friendly nations like Italy share in our enthusiasm and commitment, continuing to support us at all levels as we work towards becoming the next EU member state, he added.

Italian Foreign Minister Tajani affirmed that Italy views Montenegro as a strategic partner and emphasised that the Western Balkans remain a key priority in Italy's foreign policy. The continuity of our strong bilateral relations is supported by our NATO alliance and full backing of Montenegro’s further European integration. We will do everything to ensure you become an EU member as soon as possible, Tajani said. He invited Ibrahimović to visit Rome and highlighted Italy’s readiness to share its expertise and best practices in various fields, including tourism, culture, and energy. Tajani also emphasised the importance of enhancing economic cooperation, which, while strong, could be further improved. It is essential that we intensify our contacts. We will double our efforts to contribute to the economic development and prosperity of Montenegro and the Western Balkans region, Tajani remarked.

The two deputy prime ministers also participated in the Second Italy-Montenegro Energy Roundtable, where both underscored the energy sector as a critical link between the two countries, offering numerous opportunities for further collaboration. They pointed to the successful Italian investment in the undersea energy cable project and expressed a commitment to deepening cooperation through new initiatives and projects.

Both ministers agreed that Montenegro, as a leader in EU accession negotiations, has the potential to act as a catalyst for the further economic prosperity of the Western Balkans, which is a key political priority for Italy. They reaffirmed their mutual readiness to work together in mapping out new modes of cooperation and overcoming challenges in the region, with active support from friendly nations like Italy.