Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović said today that the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron is a recognition of Montenegro and its achievements on the path to the European Union (EU).
Macron arrived in Cetinje earlier today, where he was welcomed by Milatović.
Milatović said that today is a big day for Montenegro because it was the first time the French president visited it.
"Today, when Montenegro is closest to the EU, France's support has great value," Milatović said in Cetinje, at a press conference with Macron.
Milatović said that Montenegro's goal is to become the next EU member in 2028, and expressed his confidence that this goal will soon be achieved with the support of France.
Macron said that they are happy to be in Montenegro today, at an important moment for Montenegro but also on the eve of the EU-Western Balkans summit.
"We want to ambitiously develop our partnership with Montenegro. In recent years, we have invested a lot in bilateral relations and have made a lot of progress by signing agreements that facilitate cooperation in the fields of health, energy and infrastructure. I am not forgetting the contracts for the construction of two patrol ships," Macron said.
He said that France remains by Montenegro's side and supports it in the final phase towards EU membership.
"I want to salute the great work you have done together with the Prime Minister and the Government. You have achieved reforms, you have closed all those chapters. I believe that Europe should be united, France remains by your side to support you," Macron said.
Responding to questions about Lebanon, Macron said they were very unhappy that a Serbian soldier was killed, along with some other soldiers, in a United Nations (UN) operation led by France.
"We support the ceasefire and within that framework, France wants to help," Macron said.
When asked about the presidential elections in France and their possible impact on France's position regarding Montenegro's accession, Macron replied that he could not say how the French would vote next year.
"But I think the guarantee is that Montenegro will progress faster and communicate with all forces, that way it will be easier for you to have the consent of all countries. I have confidence in that process. I am not more worried than necessary. Don't doubt us. But what enables success is to work and to believe in that work," Macron said.
Milatović said that "we believe in ourselves."
"I believe in Montenegro as the 28th member of the EU in 2028. We have done a lot. We have gained the trust of all members, and tomorrow's summit is a signal of that trust. I am sure that this summit is a kind of political turning point and a seal that we receive from the most important partners from the EU who believe in our success," said Milatović.
In front of the Blue Castle, the residence of the President of Montenegro, after Macron's arrival, a military parade was organized, and a military orchestra performed the national anthems of France and Montenegro.
Milatović's Public Relations Office previously said that Macron's arrival represents one of the most important diplomatic events for Montenegro and a strong confirmation of deep friendship, trust and partnership with France, a country that is one of the foundations of a united Europe.
Military orchestra performs the Montenegrin anthem; Video: Biljana Matijašević
"This visit carries a clear message: Montenegro has European friends, has the support of its most important partners and has its place at the European table. It confirms that our European path is recognized as a common interest of Montenegro, the region and Europe," the statement said.
Military orchestra performs the French anthem; Video: Biljana Matijašević
See more:
Download the app and follow the news
FOLLOW US ON
