PM Krivokapić meets with Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio

Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapić met today in Villa Gorica with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, H.E. Luigi Di Maio.

Prime Minister Krivokapić expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to welcome the first representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the NATO Quint and the first representative of the newly formed Government of Prime Minister Mario Draghi, as well as gratitude for everything Italy has done for Montenegro, both on its path to EU accession and the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Krivokapić informed Minister Di Maio about major social processes in which Italy, as an older European partner, could be of help to Montenegro. The Prime Minister said that the Government's priority and the only path is EU membership, emphasising that reforms in the field of rule of law are key in order to start a real fight against organized crime and corruption, and that he expects understanding from both the EU and Italy.

Prime Minister Krivokapić also said that the two countries have successful cooperation in the field of economy, as evidenced by the numerous projects that have started.

"The submarine power cable realised by the Italian state company TERNA and the Montenegrin Electrical Transmission System (CGES) is an excellent job. If we are energy rich, then through this project we will be able to strengthen financially. We have the potential to valorise through renewable energy sources. The submarine power cable will become even more important in the future."

PM Krivokapić pointed out that the two countries have exceptional cooperation in the field of education. The two officials agreed that the exchange in the field of culture could be richer and more intensive, especially on the basis of our old dynastic ties.

Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio congratulated Prime Minister Krivokapić on his appointment, but also on his readiness to accept great challenges.

"Your Government drew positive attention in Italy," Di Maio said.

Minister Di Maio pointed out that the fight against corruption and crime in society is always present and never ends, and that he fully understands the problems that the Government of Prime Minister Krivokapić is facing. 

Minister Di Maio pointed out that Italy sees Montenegro and the entire Western Balkans as its closest partners, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"When it comes to aid, Italy has in mind first the countries of the Western Balkans. However, adherence to covid measures has proven to be the best way to avoid an unenviable health situation," Di Maio stressed.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy concluded that Montenegro can count on the help of Italy, as well as the EU and the UN, because during the pandemic we are witnessing the formation of a new world in which no one can survive alone.