The Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, Filip Ivanović, held a meeting today with the President of the Republic of Estonia, Alar Karis, who is on an official visit to Montenegro.

During their discussions, both parties acknowledged the strong bilateral relations between Montenegro and Estonia, rooted in friendship and shared Euro-Atlantic values, along with Estonia’s long-standing support for Montenegro’s European and reform aspirations. They reiterated their commitment to further enhancing these relations and expanding cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.

President Karis expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and mentioned how delighted he was to visit Montenegro for the first time. He highlighted Estonia’s commitment to its partnership with Montenegro and its intention to provide expert support, especially in EU integration, cybersecurity, and digitalization. He emphasized Estonia’s strong advocacy for EU enlargement and observed that Montenegro is regarded as the most advanced candidate in this accession process.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović reiterated Montenegro’s dedication to enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in public administration reform, digitalization, and overall institutional efficiency. He pointed out that Estonia serves as a model for successful digital transformation, noting that its experience is particularly relevant and valuable for Montenegro.

He emphasized that the Government is focused on creating a public administration that is secure, efficient, citizen-focused, and readily accessible to everyone.

Both sides concurred that there is significant potential for intensifying cooperation, notably in tourism, cybersecurity, education, and knowledge sharing. They also explored the prospect of organizing a business forum or a meeting of chambers of commerce to take concrete steps toward strengthening economic relations between their countries.

The two officials exchanged insights regarding current developments in Montenegro’s EU accession process. Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović provided President Karis with a detailed account of crucial reforms and accomplishments, including the positive IBAR, which marks Montenegro as the first candidate country to achieve this milestone, representing a historic advancement.

He expressed particular gratitude for Estonia’s steadfast support of the EU enlargement policy and underscored that Montenegro has aligned fully with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy over several years, reaffirming its position as a reliable and responsible partner.

President Karis noted Estonia’s willingness to send experts and offer assistance to Montenegro according to its requirements, with respect to EU integration and other areas of mutual interest.

Both parties emphasized the importance of strengthening tourism collaboration and enhancing tourist exchanges between their countries.

Special attention was given to the significance of student and academic personnel exchanges, as well as fortifying cooperation in education and innovation. The critical role of Estonia’s e-Governance Academy was acknowledged, with which Montenegro already cooperates effectively in digital transformation and cybersecurity.

The meeting concluded with a shared perspective that Estonia is a valuable partner for Montenegro on its European and digital journey, providing a robust foundation for furthering comprehensive bilateral cooperation in a spirit of mutual understanding and friendship.