Ibrahimović: Dialogue, prevention and inclusive partnerships are the foundation of sustainable peace

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović participated in New York in the 16th Ministerial Meeting of the United Nations Group of Friends of Mediation, dedicated to strengthening mediation through inclusive partnerships and organised by the Foreign Ministers of Türkiye and Finland.

Ibrahimović expressed Montenegro’s strong support for the work of the Group of Friends of Mediation, particularly at a time of growing geopolitical tensions and increasingly complex and protracted conflicts. He stressed the need for greater investment in prevention, dialogue and political solutions so that crises can be addressed before they escalate into conflicts.

He highlighted the important role of regional and subregional organisations, which, thanks to their knowledge of the local context and proximity to actors on the ground, can contribute to building trust and creating space for sustainable solutions. As he noted, their efforts should complement the role of the United Nations. Ibrahimović particularly emphasised the importance of inclusivity in peace processes and greater participation of women in mediation and all stages of peaceful conflict resolution.

He recalled Montenegro’s commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, as well as its participation in regional initiatives, including the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network.

Speaking about the future of international peace efforts, Ibrahimović stressed the need for stronger partnerships between the United Nations and a broader coalition of actors contributing to mediation and peacebuilding, based on the principles of subsidiarity, complementarity and mutual respect, while preserving the central role of the UN in connecting, coordinating and supporting various peace efforts.