Montenegro counts on continued political and technical support of Cyprus, especially during that country's presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) in 2026, Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović said in a conversation with his Cypriot colleague Nikos Hristodulides.
As announced by the president's office, Milatović, during his official visit to Cyprus, discussed with Hristodulides the further strengthening of political and economic ties between the two countries.
Milatović stated that Montenegro is counting on continued political and technical support from Cyprus, especially during Cyprus' presidency of the EU Council in 2026.
"Which will be crucial for us, because we want to close all the chapters and start the final phase of the integration process," said Milatović.
He, congratulating Cyprus on its jubilee - 20 years since joining the EU, thanked that country for its continued support for Montenegrin's European path.
As Milatović pointed out, the visit to Cyprus represents a turning point in the relations between the two countries.
He said that he expects that Montenegro will become a full member of the EU by 2028, adding that certain receipt of the Report on the Fulfillment of Provisional Benchmarks (IBAR) will be a significant step in that direction.
Hristodulides, as reported, said that the first official visit of the President of Montenegro represents a new chapter in the relations between the two countries.
He praised the results that Montenegro achieved in the previous period in the field of rule of law, stating that Cyprus will continue to strongly support Montenegro, as the country that has advanced the furthest in negotiations with the EU.
The announcement states that Milatović announced that, as a result of his visit to Cyprus, next week will be followed by a visit by the Minister of Transport and Maritime Affairs, and soon by a visit by the Montenegrin head of diplomacy.
"On this occasion, the contractual base of the two countries will be strengthened by signing a memorandum of understanding between Montenegro and Cyprus on the recognition of maritime certificates," the announcement states.
As it was added, Milatović also asked for the support of Cyprus for Montenegrin's candidacy for a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
Milatović invited Hristodulides for an official visit to Montenegro.
The press release states that Milatović and Hristodulides expressed their interest in strengthening economic cooperation, and also pointed out the scope for strengthening cooperation in the fields of science and tourism.
Milatović and Hristodulides also discussed the need to sign a Memorandum of Understanding in the fields of education and culture.
As it was announced, during the official visit to Cyprus, Milatović will also meet with the Speaker of the Parliament, Anita Demetriou, the Mayor of Nicosia, Konstantinos Yorkatzis, as well as Cypriot businessmen.
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