Minister of Internal Affairs Danilo Šaranović and Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović received former United States Ambassador Judy Rising Reinke for a farewell visit on January 16, discussing the cooperation so far and the results achieved during her mandate.
As announced by the Ministry of Interior, Šaranović expressed his gratitude to Reinka for the strong and continuous support of the United States of America, emphasizing that it was during this period that the strategic partnership between the two countries was further strengthened, especially in the field of security.
"Thanks to your support and our commitment, today we have a security sector that is a reliable partner in collective security. The path of reform was not easy, but it was necessary, and the support of the United States of America on that path was of particular importance," said Šaranović.
He emphasized that the reform processes were based on the selection of professional management in the police, strengthening protective mechanisms for its independent and lawful work, as well as improving the system for verifying the integrity of police officers, which resulted in stronger, freer and more professional institutions.
As announced, Reinke emphasized that cooperation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Police Directorate was intensive and substantial, through numerous joint projects, donations and training.
"Police reform is a complex process, but Montenegro is moving along this difficult path with professionalism and successful results that strengthen institutional standards," said Reinke, emphasizing that the principle of the rule of law must be clear and equal for all.
Šćepanović pointed out that the support of the US Embassy during Reinka's mandate played an important role in building a stable and sustainable police system.
"Although an individual may have power and authority, without a functional and dedicated team it is not possible to achieve substantial and lasting changes. It is through joint work that we build trust, both within Montenegro and in the international environment, and our collective is connected by a common value - a strong, clear and consistent commitment to the fight against organized crime, which represents the foundation of our work and the goal we jointly strive for," said Šćepanović, with special gratitude for the partnership with the United States of America.
The interlocutors agreed that cooperation between Montenegro and the United States during Reinke's mandate has yielded measurable and lasting results, and that the upcoming period represents an opportunity to further advance the initiated reforms and their full institutional sustainability.
"With mutual satisfaction with what was achieved, it was stated that Montenegro continues to strengthen its institutions as the foundation of security, stability and the European future of the country, with the belief that the strong partnership with the United States of America will continue in the coming period," the statement reads.
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