Montenegro wants concrete support from the United States (US) in strengthening security and the rule of law, and a stronger American investment presence, it was announced at a meeting between Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović and senior State Department official Alison Hooker.
Milatović's office announced that the meeting was a strong political message of commitment to further strengthening relations between Montenegro and the United States, with a clearly expressed need for a stronger American presence in Montenegro, both through investments and through more intensive political and security dialogue.
"The importance of appointing a US ambassador to Montenegro as soon as possible was emphasized, as an important signal of further strengthening bilateral relations and clear American commitment to Montenegro," the statement said.
The President's Office said that economic cooperation and attracting American investment have been highlighted as one of the key priorities in bilateral relations.
In this context, it was emphasized that an interstate agreement on economic cooperation would represent a concrete step forward and an upgrade of the initiated economic dialogue towards opening Montenegro to American investors.
"Milatović emphasized the importance of the rule of law and the need for an effective fight against organized crime and corruption, particularly highlighting the role of the US in these processes," the statement said.
He said that recent escapes of convicted persons pose a serious challenge and require a decisive institutional response, with strong international support.
"The alliance within NATO has been confirmed as a solid and reliable framework for cooperation, and Montenegro's efforts to increase defense spending have been welcomed," said Milatović's cabinet.
The discussions, they said, also covered current geopolitical issues, including the influence of China and Russia, supply chain challenges, and the war in Ukraine.
The statement states that the importance of political and diplomatic efforts aimed at peace was highlighted, with praise for US President Donald Trump's initiatives to achieve peace through dialogue.
"The message of the meeting is clear and politically strong: Montenegro wants concrete support in strengthening security and the rule of law and a stronger American investment presence," the statement said.
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