Ibrahimović meets with Apostolic Nuncio Chullikatt: Strengthening cooperation between Montenegro and the Holy See

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met with the Apostolic Nuncio to Montenegro, resident in Sarajevo, Archbishop Francis Assisi Chullikatt.

During the meeting, issues of mutual interest were discussed in the context of further strengthening relations between Montenegro and the Holy See, which are based on an intensive and constructive political dialogue, friendly relations, and the absence of outstanding issues, accompanied by a shared readiness to further deepen these ties.

Ibrahimović emphasized that the opening of an Apostolic Nunciature in Podgorica represents a very concrete need, given the importance of further institutional strengthening of relations with the Holy See. He underlined that Montenegro holds the spiritual and moral authority of the Holy See in the highest regard, as well as its active and constructive role in addressing global political, economic, social, environmental and other challenges – particularly through its advocacy for the peaceful resolution of disputes, the promotion of democracy, and the protection of human rights.

During the meeting, Apostolic Nuncio Chullikatt presented Ibrahimović with a Draft International Agreement between Montenegro and the Holy See on the establishment of an Apostolic Nunciature in Podgorica. This document is in line with the proposal previously submitted by the Government of Montenegro to the Vatican, whereby the legal basis for the transfer of ownership would be established through the conclusion of an international agreement.

The submitted Draft Agreement will be subject to further consideration and communication in accordance with the standard procedure for the harmonization of international treaties. On the Montenegrin side, the Ministry of Spatial Planning, Urbanism and State Property will be responsible for carrying out the necessary internal legal procedures, with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs within its respective competencies.

Ibrahimović stressed that Montenegro is a genuinely multiethnic, multiconfessional and multicultural state, committed to the full recognition and valorization of the spiritual and cultural traditions of all religious communities. In this context, members of the Catholic Church are respected and equal citizens of Montenegro, who make a significant contribution to the country’s social and cultural development.