Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro Filip Ivanović and Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares signed a memorandum of understanding in the field of European integration, which, as announced, confirms Spain's commitment to actively support Montenegro's European path.
Ivanovic, as announced by his office, met with Albares during the second day of his official visit to Madrid.
The statement states that the conclusion of the memorandum of understanding between the two countries in the field of European integration, which was signed on the eve of the meeting, sends a strong message about Spain's firm commitment to actively support Montenegro's European path.
"As well as Montenegro's readiness to strengthen institutions and administrative capacities for the successful fulfillment of the obligations of the accession process through a partnership with a member state of the European Union (EU)," the statement added.
It is stated that at the beginning of the conversation, Albares emphasized that Montenegro and Spain share the same values and said that he looks forward to strengthening relations with Montenegro.
Ivanovic emphasized that relations between the two countries are excellent, but that there is room for them to further deepen in various areas.
"Confirming that EU membership is the main priority of Montenegrin foreign policy, he said that Montenegro remains firmly committed to achieving that goal by 2028, with the belief that this is an ambitious but realistic plan," the statement said.
In this context, Ivanovic stated that he expects Spain to continue to be a strong advocate of the enlargement policy and support for Montenegro's European aspirations.
He, as announced, informed Albares about the progress Montenegro has made in the negotiation process, emphasizing that the country is fully aligned with the EU's common foreign and security policy, and that public support for European integration is extremely high.
Ivanovic's office stated that Albares positively assessed Montenegro's progress in the accession process, especially the continued pace of reforms and commitment to harmonization with European standards.
"Spain is a strong advocate of Montenegro's membership in the European Union, and we believe that this process will be completed with its accession in 2028," said Albares.
The meeting also discussed current regional and global developments, as well as the role of Montenegro as a stable partner in the international arena.
"Partnership within NATO was also discussed, which was assessed as high-quality and substantial, with mutual readiness for its further improvement," the statement said.
It is stated that the interlocutors referred to bilateral relations, with Albares assessing them as very good, with clearly expressed potential for further deepening political dialogue and cooperation.
"A special segment of the conversation was dedicated to strengthening economic relations, with a focus on the potential for Spanish investments in Montenegro, as well as cooperation through concrete initiatives," the statement added.
Ivanovic's office said that the possibility of opening the Cervantes Institute in Montenegro as soon as possible was also discussed.
"The upcoming celebration of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, which will be marked next year, was also mentioned," the statement said.
Ivanovic invited Albares to visit Montenegro, emphasizing that such a visit would represent an additional incentive for strengthening mutual relations and political dialogue.
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