Promoting a Lasting, Sustainable, and Just Peace in Ukraine
Montenegro has supported Ukraine since the onset of the war and will persist in doing so both politically and humanitarianly, stated Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović.
Milatović was in Ukraine, invited by President Volodymyr Zelensky, to attend the fourth Ukraine – Southeast Europe Summit held today in Odessa.
“Today we have gathered in Odessa, a city that holds special historical significance for Ukraine. This is the inaugural summit conducted in Ukraine, following three earlier ones in Athens, Tirana, and Dubrovnik,” Milatović expressed, according to a statement from his office.
He mentioned that delegates from ten Southeast European countries were present, marking a summit of exceptionally high caliber.
Milatović highlighted that the key message conveyed from Odessa today is a commitment to a lasting, sustainable, and just peace in Ukraine.
“Naturally, the first step towards this would be a ceasefire and the cessation of all conflicts in Ukraine. Today, we collectively communicated that message from Odessa,” Milatović affirmed.
He noted that Odessa endures certain military actions and bombings daily.
“Just two nights ago, a maternity ward was struck here. It is a profound feeling of bitterness, a painful reality to be in a nation impacted by war, facing the consequences that accompany it every day. That’s why it is vital for us all to be here today, to express our support for Ukraine and a call for peace,” Milatović stated.
He recalled Montenegro’s unwavering support for Ukraine since the war began, reaffirming the country’s commitment to continue this support in the near future, both politically and humanely.
“During the Summit, I reiterated that Montenegro, as a leader in European integration, eagerly anticipates any advancements Ukraine makes on that path,” Milatović said.
He pointed out that the European Union has initiated negotiations with Ukraine, and it is anticipated that the first cluster will be opened by year’s end. Montenegro, as a pioneering leader and future member, expresses joy at the progress Ukraine is making in this regard.
Milatović underscored that the primary takeaway from this event is a message of support for peace in Ukraine.
“Peace that must arrive as swiftly as possible. A ceasefire that needs to materialize without delay. In this context, today’s gathering in Odessa delivered an important message,” Milatović concluded.
The statement added that Milatović engaged in several bilateral discussions during the summit, and on Tuesday, he met with Moldovan President Maja Sandu in Chisinau.
“During the Summit, along with other delegation heads, he laid flowers at the Alley of Heroes in Taras Shevchenko Park,” the statement concluded.