Konjević meets UK Special Envoy Stuart Peach

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Raško Konjević met with British Prime Minister's Special Envoy to the Western Balkans Sir Stuart Peach. The two officials assessed that Europe and the West must be present and strengthen their influence in the Western Balkans. Otherwise, there is a constant danger of influence of third parties.  

The meeting emphasised that the UK will continue to strongly support Montenegro both politically and in terms of defence and security.

Both sides expressed concern over Russia's aggression against Ukraine, as well as the possible impact on the Western Balkans region, pointing to the importance of joint action by NATO and European partners.

Konjević pointed out that Montenegro shares the values of its NATO allies.

There is no dilemma, especially in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, he added.

Konjević stressed that the war in Ukraine showed the importance of Montenegro's membership in NATO, pointing out that Montenegro has been under the influence of third parties for years, and that in the recent past it was difficult to explain to international partners the distinction between the intelligence and religious side of a religious community, as extended arms of malignant political influence of third parties.

Konjević said that the new Government will continue the fight against corruption and organised crime, and that it will be a strong advocate of greater political stability and acceleration of EU integration.

Expressing concern, Sir Peach stressed that the world had changed a lot since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He pointed out the multiple implications of the war, including the danger of a certain increase and strengthening of criminal activities at the international level, which is an inevitable consequence.

Sir Peach thanked Montenegro for joining the sanctions against Russia, emphasising the importance of European unity at this moment.

We must support Ukraine in a smart way - logistically, but also politically, said Sir Peach, pointing to the long history of Russian influence in the region.

The two officials exchanged views on the security situation in the region, noting that one of the key factors in its stability is the political dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

Konjević thanked the UK for its numerous donations to Montenegro and its defence system.

Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Montenegro Karen Maddocks, and the non-resident UK Defence Attaché to Montenegro, Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Wight-Boycott were also present at the meeting.