Abazović meets US Ambassador Judy Rising Reinke

Prime Minister Dritan Abazović met with US Ambassador to Montenegro Judy Rising Reinke.

Ambassador Reinke handed over a letter of congratulations from US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. The US Secretary of State congratulated Abazović on the election of the 43^rd Government and, among other things, praised Montenegro's stance on the Russian Federation's invasion against Ukraine.

The United States supports Montenegro's accelerated progress towards the European Union, the establishment of an independent judicial system, the fight against high-level corruption and organised crime, said Ambassador Reinke.  

Prime Minister Abazović stated that the United States is not only an ally and friend, but also a strategic partner of Montenegro.

I am satisfied with the dynamics of the work of the new Government and the optimism it brings. Good cooperation with the Parliament indicates that the Government can achieve a comprehensive political dialogue in order to reach a compromise on appointments in key areas of the judiciary, said Prime Minister Abazović.

Emphasising that the United States is an important economic partner of Montenegro, Abazović said that bilateral and economic dialogue with international partners and allies has been intensified, with the aim of creating conditions for a successful tourist season, but also diversification of the economy.

We appreciate the support of the United States in our European integration. We support "a merit-based acceleration". The Government of Montenegro is determined to achieve results in the field against organised crime and corruption, and they will be achieved, said Prime Minister Abazović.

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken wrote:

Dear Mr. Prime Minister,

Congratulations on your appointment as Prime Minister of Montenegro. You take the lead at a crucial time when the right of free nations to shape their own destiny is under threat. I look forward to working closely with you and other NATO allies in response to Russia's unjustified, brutal war against Ukraine - the biggest challenge to European security in decades. We welcome the fact that Montenegro has joined democracies around the world in condemning Putin's war in Ukraine, sanctioning those responsible and providing humanitarian and security assistance to Kiev.

Russia's war is also an attack on our common democratic values, making your commitment to reconciliation, dialogue and inclusion even more important. The United States supports your Government's intention to accelerate Montenegro's EU accession, establish a truly independent judiciary, fight corruption and organised crime, strengthen bilateral trade and investment, and deepen regional economic integration.

I am convinced that we, in cooperation with Ambassador Judy Reinke, will advance our common interests and ensure a more prosperous future for Montenegro and the Western Balkans.

Sincerely,
Secretary Anthony Blinken