The United Kingdom, although no longer a member of the European Union (EU), wants to help Montenegro move closer to the Union, because it knows how much value it can bring to countries like Montenegro, said the new United Kingdom Special Envoy for the Western Balkans region, Karen Pearce.
In a video address recorded during her first official visit to Montenegro, Pierce said that she cares about the Western Balkan countries and has worked on them during various stages of her career.
She said that this was her first visit to Montenegro and that she was very impressed so far.
"Not only with its stunning landscapes, but also with the incredible progress that Montenegro is making on its path to the EU, but also, of course, as a valued partner that Montenegro is in the NATO alliance," said Pearce.
She said that the United Kingdom wants to help Montenegro move closer to the EU.
"The United Kingdom supports Montenegro's accession to the EU. We, the British, are no longer members of the EU, but we know how much value the Union can bring to countries like Montenegro," Pearce stressed.
She said that they are delighted with Montenegro's progress.
"We are delighted that Montenegro is progressing more than some of its neighbors and may it continue to progress," said Pearce.
As she stated, the role of the United Kingdom is to assist in economic development.
"We also help combat serious and organized crime in ports, at the border, and work closely with the Special Prosecution Service," added Pierce.
She said that the United Kingdom works closely with Montenegro on security and regional cooperation, and that they greatly appreciate its contribution to that security.
"We are working together to train Montenegrin soldiers, we are bringing them to our universities, we are strengthening Montenegro's capacities. This is a very important task for the British government," Pearce said.
She said that in October, the United Kingdom will have the honour of hosting the Berlin Process Summit.
"We want to make progress in the Euro-Atlantic integration of the region, to complement what has already been done on the path to the EU, and to help Montenegro and its neighbors in their economic maturation, and we want you to join us on the world stage," Pearce emphasized.
She said they look forward to the arrival of Montenegrin officials in London, along with others from the Western Balkans, emphasizing that it will be an important summit.
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