DPM Ivanović meets with Victoria Billing, FCDO Director Europe

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today with Victoria Billing, FCDO Director Europe at Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office. During the meeting, the strong and close relationship between Montenegro and the United Kingdom was reaffirmed, along with the mutual willingness to deepen this cooperation.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović emphasised the importance of the alliance within NATO, which serves as a strong foundation for stable bilateral cooperation. He highlighted Montenegro's appreciation for the UK's contributions to democratic and structural reforms, which are essential for Montenegro's progress towards European integration.

We especially value the United Kingdom's continued support for Montenegro's European path, despite its exit from the European Union, stated Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining regular dialogue with British officials, including Lord Stuart Peach, the UK's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, which further strengthens bilateral ties. The stability of the Western Balkans is a shared interest, and Montenegro deeply appreciates the UK's sincere and ongoing support in building a secure and democratic region based on the rule of law and regional cooperation.

Victoria Billing underlined that the UK Government's strategy, published in July 2023, clearly defines its support for Montenegro's stability and prosperity. The UK will continue to back efforts to strengthen democratic processes, improve the rule of law, and combat organised crime through structural reforms.

Both parties noted that economic cooperation does not fully reflect the highly developed political relations between Montenegro and the UK. There is mutual interest in enhancing economic ties to match the level of political closeness.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović particularly emphasised that Montenegro sees great potential in establishing a broader legal framework for cooperation in areas such as trade, education, science, and other key sectors, which will further deepen the overall bilateral relationship between the two countries.

This meeting represents another step towards strengthening the partnership between Montenegro and the United Kingdom, focusing on shared goals of stability, security, and prosperity.