MKM: We received the information about Marunović's arrest with concern, we will provide him with all necessary support

The Ministry of Culture and Media (MKM) announced tonight that it received with concern information about the detention of Montenegrin director Danilo Marunović by officers of the Security and Information Agency (BIA) of Serbia.

"Given that the treatment of Mr. Marunović could have been motivated by his public actions and public expression of views, we recall the fundamental importance of freedom of thought and expression as universal democratic values ​​that form the basis of every modern and responsible state. At the same time, as public actors, we all have a responsibility to take into account mutual respect in our expression, no matter how different our views may be," the MKM, headed by Tamara Vujović, said in a statement.

The government department added that Montenegro remains committed to the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect and regional cooperation, and that it is confident that this case will be resolved in the spirit of these values.

"The Ministry of Culture and Media, in coordination with the relevant institutions, will monitor the development of the situation and provide all necessary support to our artist," the MKM statement reads.

Vijesti reported earlier today that Montenegrin director Danilo Marunović was released today from the Serbian Security Information Agency (BIA) after questioning, and that he had to leave Serbia immediately.

Another source told Vijesti earlier today that BIA agents will escort Marunović to the border with Montenegro.

Marunović was taken into custody this morning at around nine o'clock for an informational interview at the BIA premises in Belgrade.

Vijesti learned from sources close to theater circles that BIA agents entered Marunović's hotel room, where he was staying for tonight's guest performance of the play "Gospoda Glembajevi", produced by the Montenegrin National Theater (CNP), at the National Theater in Belgrade.