Ibrahimović – Wang Yi: Montenegro committed to strengthening relations with China, tangible benefits for Montenegrin citizens

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović hosted Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi, during his two-day official visit to Montenegro. This marks the first visit by a Chinese foreign minister to the country since Montenegro regained its independence.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on economic cooperation, infrastructure projects, tourism and culture.

DPM Ibrahimović stressed that the cooperation between the two countries provides a solid foundation for developing new partnerships, emphasising that Montenegro’s goal is to ensure that these partnerships deliver tangible, long-term benefits for its citizens.

Montenegro is interested in partnerships that bring high-quality investment, sustainable infrastructure and opportunities for the development of the domestic economy, while fully respecting our development priorities and European standards, Ibrahimović stated.

Minister Wang Yi noted that the two countries had established favourable conditions for further strengthening their relations. He stressed that, despite differences in geographical distance and size, the two countries can work together to strengthen cooperation and build relations based on mutual respect.

Reflecting on the projects that have marked cooperation between the two countries, Ibrahimović highlighted the first section of the Bar–Boljare motorway, from Smokovac to Mateševo; the involvement of a Chinese consortium in the Mateševo–Andrijevica section; and the reconstruction of the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, supported by a Chinese donation.

He stressed that these projects demonstrate the importance of cooperation that contributes to improved connectivity, economic development and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Particular attention was paid to visa arrangements and opportunities to facilitate contacts, especially in the field of tourism, while ensuring the consistent implementation of obligations arising from Montenegro’s EU accession process.

The meeting also highlighted that Montenegro’s membership in the European Union would create additional opportunities for cooperation. The Chinese side noted that, as an EU member, Montenegro will become an even more stable and credible partner for China, thus contributing to the further development of relations and cooperation between China and the European Union.

DPM Ibrahimović stated that Montenegro will continue to develop its relations with China on the basis of mutual respect, open dialogue and shared practical interests, with clearly defined priorities and full respect for its European path.