DPM Koprivica meets with Vice-President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Irene Charalambides

Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Justice and Anti-Corruption Momo Koprivica met with Vice-President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Irene Charalambides.

The meeting focused on the role of the OSCE in Montenegro’s reform processes, European integration, and ongoing challenges in the areas of rule of law and the fight against corruption. Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica underlined that Montenegro has advanced the furthest in negotiations with the European Union, stressing that the country’s legal and political systems are undergoing qualitative transformation and are largely aligned with European standards.

He highlighted the adoption of a comprehensive Anti-Corruption Strategy, the introduction of modern legislation in the fields of anti-money laundering, countering the financing of terrorism, and games of chance. These measures, he emphasized, establish order, strengthen oversight, and safeguard the state budget. Koprivica also underscored the importance of the inventory and destruction of seized tobacco, resolving a longstanding issue, strengthening the state’s credibility, and sending a clear message of zero tolerance towards smuggling. Finally, he emphasized the significance of planned reforms to criminal procedure legislation aimed at ensuring efficiency and strengthening the necessary procedural discipline.

Vice-President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Irene Charalambides expressed her satisfaction with her visit to Montenegro, highlighting the importance of the reforms Montenegro is successfully undertaking. She noted that Cyprus and Montenegro, as small Mediterranean countries facing similar challenges, share much in common.

She stressed that the OSCE strongly supports judicial reforms in Montenegro, which are aimed at building public trust and ensuring Montenegro’s swift accession to the European Union.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica thanked Vice-President Charalambides for her visit and expressed gratitude for the continued support of both the OSCE and Cyprus, which she represents in parliament.