Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović held a meeting in Riga with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia, Baiba Braže. The conversation unfolded in a constructive and amicable setting, reinforcing the strong partnership between the two nations.

Ivanović underscored that European integration is a vital priority for Montenegro and expressed appreciation to Latvia for its ongoing political and expert backing. He highlighted the advancements Montenegro has made within the EU accession process, noting the significant societal and political consensus supporting EU membership.

Minister Braže commended Montenegro’s progress on its European journey, indicating that Latvia views Montenegro as a frontrunner in the enlargement process. She expressed her anticipation that Montenegro will achieve EU membership by 2028, coinciding with Latvia’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Braže remarked that Montenegro has shown a serious commitment to European values and is prepared to undertake the responsibilities of membership, adding that Latvia will continue to offer full support and share its expertise throughout the accession journey. She also stressed the importance of Montenegro’s complete alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.

The two officials emphasized the significance of cooperation within NATO. Braže highlighted the contributions of Montenegrin troops to the multinational battlegroup based in Ādaži and expressed gratitude to Montenegro for its role in enhancing the security of the Baltic region.

Discussions also revolved around enhancing economic and tourism connections, specifically the establishment of seasonal direct flights between Tivat and Riga. The potential launch of a direct route between Podgorica and Riga was recognized as an opportunity to further promote people-to-people connections and foster new avenues for collaboration.

In a gesture of respect, Ivanović and Braže laid flowers at the Freedom Monument in Riga, after which Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović signed the Guest Book at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During his visit to the Parliament of the Republic of Latvia, Ivanović met with the Deputy Head of the European Affairs Committee, Uģis Rotbergs, who affirmed Latvia’s robust support for Montenegro’s goal to become the next EU member and acknowledged Montenegro’s leading role in the accession talks.

Ivanović conveyed his gratitude for the support and briefed Rotbergs on Montenegro’s progress in EU negotiations, reiterating the aim of becoming an EU member by 2028. He assessed this goal as ambitious yet attainable, noting that Montenegro’s membership could act as a model and encouragement for other candidate nations. The officials concurred that there is significant potential for collaboration across various domains, including politics, security, economy, education, and tourism.

As part of the agenda, Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović also visited the Museum of the Occupation in Riga, where he gained insights into the suffering and resistance of the Latvian people during the 20th century.