While talking about the accession to the European Union (EU), Montenegro’s Prime Minister, Mr Duško Marković, said that Montenegro had always been advocating for the “quality before speed” principle.
“In the past seven years, we have demonstrated that difficult and demanding reforms contributed to the improvement of quality of life, and we have always been aware that even more demanding reforms lie ahead”, said Mr Marković at the press conference held after the meeting with his Maltese counterpart, Mr Joseph Muskat, who is in his official to Montenegro.
As PM pointed out, Union’s active presence throughout negotiation process and its commitment to the Western Balkans are the best way towards long-term development and prosperity of the region.
Montenegro’s and Malta’s prime ministers agreed that the two countries cherished stable political and economic relations and that they shared opinion on WB countries’ European aspirations.
“We appreciate Malta’s continuous and generous support for the reforms and adoption of European standards. We appreciate that Malta shares its own experience. We are thankful for the understanding and respect for the efforts Montenegro devotes to the EU integration process”, Mr Marković said.
Mr Muskat reiterated his country’s support for the Montenegro’s European integration path.
“As far as your European aspirations are concerned, Malta has never brought them into question. We fully support Montenegro’s EU membership and we acknowledge great progress you’ve made”, said Malta’s prime minister.
Wrong EU decision
Mr Marković said the decision of the European Council to reject opening membership talks with North Macedonia was disappointing.
“After this disappointing decision was rendered, I have emphasized our commitment to fulfilling our tasks with greater determination. For us, European perspective has no alternative”, said Montenegro’s PM.
Mr Muskat agrees the decision was wrong.
“We failed to reach an agreement, provide one clear European perspective for our friends in North Macedonia and Albania. It was a wrong decision. Hopefully, the European Council will revise it”, said Mr Muskat.
Speaking about the relations between the countries, prime ministers emphasized excellent political and economic relations. Opening ceremony of Možura wind farm confirms it.
“This is the first time that our state-owned company enters the area of another country. This is a new lesson for us and a sign of trust we have in your country”, said Mr Muskat.
Mr Marković said that, apart from the well known successful project in the field of energy, there were many possibilities for the improvement of cooperation in many other fields.
Prime Ministers of Montenegro and Malta will attend this afternoon ceremonial opening of Možura wind farm.
