The rule of law and the battle against organized crime will unleash Montenegro’s full potential, benefiting the broader region.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić held a meeting with Stephen Doughty, the UK Minister for Europe, North America, and Overseas Territories, in Podgorica.

In a highly productive discussion, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to a robust strategic partnership while recognizing the significant potential for further collaboration.

The Montenegro government is dedicated to enhancing its relations with the United Kingdom. Although our alliance is already solid, there are opportunities for even deeper bilateral cooperation. Your assistance in Montenegro’s battle against historical misconduct in customs operations and in bolstering the Customs Administration’s capabilities is crucial, stated Prime Minister Spajić. He highlighted that the final stage of the destruction of confiscated cigarettes stored at the Port of Bar is currently in progress.

Montenegro and the UK are united in their ongoing fight against serious organized crime, a shared priority. Both countries’ police and customs agencies have established excellent cooperation, and Prime Minister Spajić expressed particular appreciation for the UK’s assistance in offering training programs to improve law enforcement capabilities in combating organized and cross-border crime.

Minister Doughty remarked that comprehensive reforms—especially in strengthening the rule of law, addressing serious organized crime and corruption, as well as tackling illegal migration—are essential to realizing Montenegro’s full potential.

He also noted that there is room to further develop cooperation in education and tourism.

The discussions also touched on Montenegro’s ambitions for European integration and its goal to be administratively ready to join the EU by the end of 2026. While it was recognized that limited institutional capacity is a hurdle, the UK is among the nations prepared to offer assistance in this area.

A stable, transparent, and resilient Montenegro benefits not only its own citizens but also the larger region. As NATO allies, the UK is committed to being a reliable partner and friend to Montenegro, providing support and expertise to help achieve this collective vision, emphasized Minister Doughty.

The tragic event in Cetinje was also discussed. The UK delegation pointed out that disarmament is a vital step in preventing similar tragedies. They shared insights from their own experiences, emphasizing that gun return campaigns should be ongoing, as they contribute to vital cultural changes in society.

The meeting also included participation from Lord Stuart Peach, the UK Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, and Dawn McKen, the British Ambassador to Montenegro.