DPM Ivanović meets with Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus Andreas Photiou

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today in Podgorica with the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus on a non-resident basis, H.E. Andreas Photiou, who is based in Belgrade.

During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relations between Montenegro and Cyprus and expressed mutual readiness to further enhance cooperation, particularly within the framework of the European agenda.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović expressed gratitude for Cyprus’s continuous support of Montenegro’s EU accession process. He highlighted the importance of the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, which will coincide with the final phase of Montenegro’s negotiation process. In this context, he emphasized the need for intensified communication and collaboration at all levels to ensure an effective exchange of experience and expert support.

The meeting also addressed specific steps to strengthen bilateral cooperation through the conclusion of agreements and memoranda in various fields, including science, education, mutual recognition of higher education qualifications, and an agreement on the mutual recognition of driving licenses between Montenegro and Cyprus. Additionally, the potential for increased economic cooperation was discussed, particularly in the areas of tourism and trade, along with the challenges and opportunities such cooperation may bring.

Ambassador Photiou briefed Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović on last month’s Informal Meeting on Cyprus held in Geneva in an expanded format under the auspices of the United Nations. He noted that progress was made through agreements on confidence-building measures between the two communities. He also expressed appreciation to Montenegro for its principled stance on the Cyprus issue.

Both parties agreed that ongoing communication and mutual support will contribute to further strengthening relations between Montenegro and Cyprus and accelerating Montenegro’s path toward EU membership.