Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today with the President of the Slovak Republic Peter Pellegrini, who is on an official visit to Montenegro. The meeting took place in a cordial and open setting, reaffirming the strong and cooperative ties between the two nations.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović expressed his contentment with the long-standing and amicable collaboration with Slovakia and extended gratitude for its ongoing support of Montenegro’s journey toward European integration. He highlighted the Government’s earnest commitment to further enhance cooperation in crucial areas such as the economy, culture, education, security, and defense.

President Pellegrini remarked that his visit to Montenegro conveys a clear message that Slovakia remains a steadfast partner in Montenegro’s European efforts. He acknowledged the significant potential for enhancing political and economic collaboration and reaffirmed Slovakia’s willingness to provide expert assistance and share its experiences from the EU accession journey. He commended Montenegro’s ambitious EU objectives, deeming them attainable through consistent reform implementation.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović reiterated Montenegro’s support for the European aspirations of all regional countries, emphasizing the significance of a merit-based approach. He stressed that Montenegro’s accession to the EU as the first country in the region would bolster the credibility of the enlargement process and position Montenegro as a strong advocate for the accession of others.

Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević updated the Slovak President on the progress of accession negotiations, stating that Montenegro has a clear roadmap, an irreversible reform trajectory, and the determination to fulfill all outstanding commitments. She confirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to implementing reforms and reiterated that EU membership remains the country’s primary strategic priority.

Ivanović also emphasized Montenegro’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, as well as the Government’s dedication to fulfilling all pending obligations within the accession process.

President Pellegrini expressed satisfaction with the pace of reforms and the level of dedication observed during his visit. He underscored the importance of continuing high-level exchanges and affirmed that Slovakia will remain a strong partner and supporter of Montenegro on its path to EU membership.