27/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 27/08/2024 16:03
Montenegro will be much better represented globally by strengthening its diplomatic network, which is particularly important in the final phase of EU negotiations and in the current geopolitical context, as noted during the meetings between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and four newly appointed ambassadors who are about to assume their duties.
Prime Minister Spajić and Ambassador Jovan Mirković agreed that the United States is a key partner for Montenegro and a driving force behind numerous processes toward the West, with both countries enjoying excellent relations.
The importance of continued support in the field of the rule of law was particularly emphasised, along with the potential for strengthening economic cooperation, which should be formalized through an Economic Dialogue. Ambassador Mirković's focus in Washington will include the functionality of digital services in Montenegro, such as Google, Wikipedia, and PayPal, attracting numerous American companies, and fostering cooperation in education and science. It was noted that Montenegro's status as an ecological state should serve as a promotional asset in diplomacy and a developmental opportunity for the country.
During discussions with the new Ambassador to Budapest, Čedomir Fuštić, the importance of good relations with Hungary, which currently holds the Presidency of the European Union, was highlighted. In the context of successfully concluding European integration, the closing of chapters during Hungary's presidency will be a top priority, with the new ambassador playing a crucial role in this effort. The importance of an official visit by Prime Minister Spajić to Hungary as soon as possible was also underscored, with preparations for meetings with the highest Hungarian officials to be a focal point for Ambassador Fuštić.
Slovenia has been a strong supporter of Montenegro on its European path, and the new Ambassador to Ljubljana, Dragan Tufegdžić, expressed his desire to enhance the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries. The discussion included the numerous possibilities for leveraging Slovenia's experience in the integration process to help Montenegro become the next EU member by 2028. They also discussed the potential for strengthening economic diplomacy, which should lead to an increase in investments from Slovenia.
In his talks with the new Ambassador to North Macedonia, Zoran Miljanić, Prime Minister Spajić emphasised the expectation of the closest possible cooperation between the two friendly nations. Significant opportunities for enhancing collaboration, particularly in the fields of economy and tourism, were highlighted. Miljanić stressed the urgent need to establish an airline connection between Montenegro and North Macedonia and noted that there are already prepared projects for investment in tourism and agriculture.
Prime Minister Spajić stated that the Government expects full engagement from the ambassadors in the countries where they will represent Montenegro, to ensure that numerous ideas for cooperation across various fields are realized in the coming period.