Montenegro deserves to join the family of European countries as soon as possible, and Slovakia strongly supports it in this and remains a consistent advocate of the enlargement of the European Union (EU), it was announced at a meeting between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia, Juraj Blanar.
As announced by Spajić's office, during the talks at Villa Gorica, the exceptionally good and friendly relations between Montenegro and Slovakia were highlighted and interest in improving economic cooperation between the two countries was expressed.
It is stated that the meeting welcomed the decision of the Government of Montenegro to open an Embassy in Bratislava, which, as assessed, will contribute to further strengthening the partnership between the two countries.
"Also, satisfaction was expressed with the increase in the number of airline flights between the two countries starting this summer," the statement added.
As stated by Spajić's office, a special focus of the conversation was on Montenegro's European integration process and Slovakia's strong support on that path.
Spajić pointed out that Montenegro, in the year in which it marks two decades since the restoration of independence, is rapidly completing the last leg of its European path - the closing of all negotiation chapters, while simultaneously actively working through its chairmanship of the Berlin Process, as well as other important European initiatives.
"That is why we mark this year as a turning point on the path towards achieving our strategic goal, EU membership, which will open up new development opportunities for our citizens and economy, and make the European perspective realistic for the entire Western Balkans," said Spajić.
He said that Montenegro is grateful for Slovakia's continued and strong support in achieving the country's strategic goal.
Blanar emphasized that Slovakia fully supports Montenegro's goal of becoming the 28th member of the EU in 2028, assessing that it is a leader among candidate countries.
"We strongly support your European path. You are currently in a good position with 13 provisionally closed chapters and a significant number ready. We are confident that you will fulfill the remaining obligations, and your leadership is committed to that," said Blanar.
He said that he expects the young generation of politicians to continue the EU's path based on a policy of peace.
"The interlocutors agreed that continuous and intensive dialogue and support from the EU and its member states, as well as joint efforts in implementing reforms, are key to the accelerated closure of negotiation chapters and the successful completion of Montenegro's integration," the statement added.
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