Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Igor Lukšić hosted earlier today the Minister for Europe and International Affairs of Baden-Wurttemberg, Peter Friedrich.
The two officials commended the intensity of political relations between Montenegro and Germany, as well as Montenegro and Baden-Wurttemberg, especially in the areas of home affairs and justice. They agreed that the overall political relations are very good, and that the efforts at improving relations with this and other German states are aided by Montenegro’s diplomatic network. They also emphasised the importance of the recently held Western Balkans conference in Germany, which reiterated Germany’s interest in this region, and they welcomed the forthcoming regional conference in Montenegro.
Mr Friedrich has said that, even though the foreign policy is within the remits of the federal government, Baden-Wurttemberg will continue providing support to Montenegro’s EU integration in line with its abilities. In that sense, he said that there is no such thing as enlargement fatigue and that it is up to each individual country to implement reforms and to be assessed on the basis of individual efforts and results. He presented the possibility of cooperation within the Danube Strategy and voiced an interest in boosting bilateral cooperation in all areas.
Mr Lukšić informed his interlocutor with the current moment in Montenegro’s integration process, as well as the opportunities for cooperation in the area of economy, including the re-establishment of cooperation in the area of industry between Montenegro and Baden-Wurttemberg. Mr Lukšić presented opportunities for boosting cooperation in the area of investment.
The meeting was also attended by Petar Kulić, chairman of the Baden-Wurttemberg’s chamber of commerce, and in addition to the topics on boosting cooperation, the officials spoke about the possibility of professional training for young Montenegrin professionals at German companies, having in mind the tradition and experience of Baden-Wurttemberg in the area of professional training.
Both sides agreed that the cooperation in various bilateral areas should also be strengthened by signing a memorandum on cooperation.
