EU Perspective: Key to Regional Stability
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović took part in the 20th Bled Strategic Forum held in Slovenia, a notable international conference concentrating on European and global policy matters.
On the inaugural day of the Forum, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić-Radman, reaffirming Montenegro’s dedication to fostering dialogue and enhancing bilateral relations with the Republic of Croatia.
Subsequently, Ibrahimović attended the official opening of the Forum and engaged in a series of bilateral discussions. In a meeting with Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office of Germany Florian Hahn, the strong and friendly relations between the two nations were acknowledged, along with their robust NATO partnership, especially in light of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Ibrahimović expressed gratitude for Germany’s ongoing support of Montenegro’s European integration, emphasizing the need for continued involvement through the Berlin Process and the pursuit of enhanced economic cooperation and investment opportunities.
During discussions with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, both parties highlighted their friendly ties, rooted in shared values of multilateralism, interfaith dialogue, and tolerance promotion. They also explored avenues to bolster economic cooperation and tourism, including the potential establishment of direct flights.
In a meeting with the President of the Euro-Mediterranean University (EMUNI) Rado Bohinc, Ibrahimović stressed the significance of boosting collaboration in education and scientific research through university partnerships and joint projects.
On the second day, Minister Ibrahimović joined a working breakfast with foreign ministers from the Western Balkans and the Republic of Croatia, along with special envoys for the Western Balkans, hosted by Slovenia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon. The discussions centered on regional developments and the European integration perspective.
Ibrahimović asserted that maintaining Europe and Euro-Atlantic orientation in the region is vital. Strong EU and NATO support is crucial for the long-term stability and prosperity of our nations. He emphasized Montenegro’s determination to finalize accession negotiations by 2026 and to be fully ready for EU membership by 2028.