EU's Relationship with Montenegro in the Years to Come
In a recent visit to Montenegro, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker met with the country's President Jakov Milatović and Prime Minister Milojko Spajić to discuss ways to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen ties between the two nations.
During the meetings, Stocker encouraged Montenegro to continue its support for EU sanctions against Russia. The small Balkan nation has been a steadfast supporter of these sanctions since their inception, a fact that has earned it recognition as a model for EU integration in the region.
The Chancellor and the Montenegrin heads of government signed an agreement to strengthen economic cooperation. With Austria being one of the top 10 investors in Montenegro, there is potential for further improvement in the involvement of Austrian companies in Montenegro's infrastructure projects. Currently, 28 Austrian companies are already established in the country.
Stocker expressed hope that the resolution of open questions would be a sign of reconciliation and peaceful coexistence in the region. He also praised Montenegro's full alignment with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy.
The Chancellor noted the importance of Montenegro's efforts to expand relations with neighbouring countries. Many chapters have already been provisionally closed in Montenegro's path to full EU membership, a testament to the significant progress and important reforms the country has achieved in the area of the rule of law.
Both Montenegrin heads of government expressed their thanks for the offer of Austrian support in the form of firefighters and equipment during the wildfires. The Chancellor's program in the Western Balkans was rounded off by meetings in Serbia the following day.
Stocker expressed satisfaction with the cooperation in combating illegal migration. He also expressed a goal to strengthen cooperation in the areas of renewable energy and mining.
A further working meeting between the two heads of government is scheduled for November in Vienna. Photos from Montenegro are available free of charge via the Federal Chancellery's Photo Service.
Austria is a strong advocate for a credible EU perspective for Western Balkans states. The Chancellor's visit to Montenegro underscores Austria's commitment to fostering close relations with its neighbours and supporting their efforts towards EU integration.
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