Đukanović: Integration is the only way to consolidate stability; De Kro: EU countries must clearly demonstrate the certainty of EU membership

Montenegro is absolutely convinced that integration is the only way to consolidate stability and further economic development - assessed the President of Montenegro Milo Đukanović during the meeting with the Prime Minister of Belgium Alexander De Kro, referring to a certain slowdown in the integration process caused by political instability.
Đukanović, as stated in the announcement, emphasized the state's determination to complete the reforms in due time and adopt the European system of values ​​on the way to achieving the goal of EU membership.
At the meeting, as part of his two-day visit to the Kingdom of Belgium, the President pointed to the long tradition of relations between Montenegro and Belgium, which is characterized by friendship and today's alliance in NATO, and thanked Belgium for its continuous support to Montenegro on the path of integration, which has additional weight because it comes from EU founding countries.
Belgium's expertise in this context, especially in the area of ​​the rule of law, where we clearly recognize the deficit, is extremely important - pointed out Đukanović.
In addition to high marks for the cooperation between the two countries so far, Đukanović stated that there is significant room for improving economic cooperation, for example the recent visit of Montenegrin businessmen to Brussels and good experiences with Belgian companies, such as Besix.
The door for partners from Belgium and EU countries is open - said Đukanović.
De Kro, as it was pointed out, praised Montenegro for the progress made in the previous period, along with his country's commitment to strengthening the partnership between Montenegro and the EU.
Montenegro is the country that has made the most progress, the political deadlock has slowed it down, but we want to encourage you to stick to the topic of integration and important reforms - said the Belgian Prime Minister.
On the other hand, he adds, European countries should clearly demonstrate the seriousness and certainty of EU membership
The process of integration is a technical, but also a political job, and not every country managed to preserve the prevailing support for European politics like Montenegro, which is worthy of congratulations - said De Kro.
He thanked Montenegro for the role it plays within the Alliance, as well as for full compliance with EU positions in foreign and security policy and when it comes to the Ukrainian crisis, especially in comparison with other countries.
The Prime Minister of Belgium agreed on the significant potential of economic cooperation between the two countries, primarily in tourism. He praised the police cooperation of the two countries, and the commitment to strengthen cooperation in the fight against migration and human trafficking - it was stated in the announcement of the Cabinet of the President of Montenegro.
Both sides expressed their readiness to continue strengthening the contractual base, specifically in relation to the issue of double taxation, and strengthening ties in the fields of culture, education and science.
Đukanović and De Kroo, in particular, referred to the current situation in the region, which is at a lower level compared to the previous period, appreciating that the upcoming EU-ZB Summit in Tirana, in which they both participate, will be an opportunity to send a strong message about the resolve of Europe that for ZB, after the done work of harmonizing with European standards and reaching the criteria, the doors of the EU are open - they said in the announcement.
Đukanović began his two-day visit to Belgium with a meeting with King Filip. He will also meet with the President of the Belgian Parliament, as well as with the Montenegrin diaspora in the Benelux countries.
I.B.