English

Uyehara worried due to foreign influence in Montenegrin elections

“We accept ODIHR’s preliminary estimates that the elections on October 16th were in accordance with basic liberties”, Uyehara said to MINA Agency.

She said they were glad to see a large voter turnout and a peaceful practice of democracy.

“We are awaiting for the forming of a new government, looking forward to continue our strong partnership with Montenegro, regardless of who becomes leadership”, Uyehara said.

“I hope that the new government continues to resolve the most important issues in Montenegro such as corruption, and that they will continue the progress in EU and NATO integration”, Uyehara said.

Commenting on statements of Serbian and Montenegrin prime ministers Aleksandar Vučić and Milo Đukanović about apparent foreign involvement in the elections, she said that the Embassy is worried about foreign influence in any elections.

“We are following the events in Montenegro and we invite the authorities to deal with this matter through democratic institution in compliance with the rule of law”, Uyehara said.

She said she was very satisfied with the pace of Montenegro’s NATO ratification.

“13 countries have already ratified the Accession Protocol. President Barack Obama sent the Protocol to US Senate for ratification on June 28th, and a sub committee in the Senate has already discussed it. We hope that the Senate picks up this matter as soon as possible”, Uyehara said.

She said that the US would continue to support Montenegro in its integrations.

“We will continue to support fight against corruption and development of rule of law. I also believe it is important that we continue to support the development of strong civic society and strong, independent, professional and objective media. I hope we can contribute to economic development of Montenegro as well”, Uyehara said.

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