Milatović: I expect Serbia and Montenegro to soon appoint ambassadors in Podgorica and Belgrade

(Patria) - President of Montenegro Jakov Milatović assessed that restoring the diplomatic level of representation is one of the more important issues for the development of relations between Podgorica and Belgrade and expects the two countries to soon appoint new ambassadors.

"It would be normal for political relations to be the driving force for the development of economic relations, and it seems to me that in recent years the situation was such that economic relations developed despite inadequately good political relations. That is why my expectation is that we will soon appoint new ambassadors of Serbia in Montenegro, as well as of Montenegro in Serbia," Milatović said in today's Politika.

Milatović said ahead of his visit to Serbia that relations between the two states have been on an upward trajectory since his inauguration at the end of May and the presence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.

He said he views relations between Podgorica and Belgrade through the prism of good neighbourly relations, which, after Montenegro's accession to the European Union (EU), is one of their most important foreign policy priorities.

"My expectations in that regard are that in a sincere and open conversation we will discuss all issues of importance and mutual interest for our states," Milatović said.

Asked about the "Open Balkan" initiative, the President of Montenegro said that for them, EU membership is a priority, and accordingly, immediate commitment to the Berlin Process, but that the new parliament and new government of Montenegro will certainly address this issue.

"Any economic initiative that brings new value in terms of reducing barriers and strengthening economic activity in the region, provided it does not conflict with the principles of the Berlin Process, can be useful," Milatović said.