PM Krivokapić meets with President of France-Western Balkans Friendship Group

Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapić hosted a delegation of the French Senate today in Villa Gorica, headed by the President of the France-Western Balkans Friendship Group Marta de Cidrac.

PM Krivokapić pointed out that the visit of Senator Marta de Cidrac is a continuation of political dialogue and intensive cooperation in all areas that exists between the two friendly countries. The Prime Minister thanked the French Senator for the transparent political support she constantly sends to the countries of the Western Balkans on their European path. He emphasised that such sincere support expressed by the high representatives of the EU member states is of immense value and importance, because in that way it is unequivocally indicated that the EU's door to the Western Balkans is wide open.

Thank you for sincerely and selflessly opening your door to the region and Montenegro, which geographically, spiritually and culturally belongs to the European Union. I feel that it is only a matter of time when we will become part of your system. The agreement signed by the three coalition leaders after 30 August 2020 is a guarantee that our foreign policy will not change. I believe that only an expert Government can successfully lead a democratic transition. Montenegro is resolutely and unstoppably heading towards you, said Krivokapić.

The Prime Minister recalled the conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron on 10 May, when France strongly supported Montenegro's reform and European path, while the current Government expressed full determination to successfully implement all reform processes and fulfill all obligations from the demanding European agenda, especially from the chapters related to the rule of law, the fight against organised crime and corruption, and security.

Krivokapić also spoke about the socio-economic importance of the projects that the French Development Agency (AFD) planned to start in Montenegro, in accordance with the goals of sustainable development. He also emphasised the importance of French companies present in Montenegro, but also expressed hope that large French companies would find interest in investing their experience, skills, knowledge and financial capital in Montenegro.

We are extremely pleased with Valgo's activities in removing one of the four environmental black spots in Montenegro. I hope that the relationship between this company and the state of Montenegro will be sufficiently stimulating for other investors from France, Krivokapić said.

Undoubtedly, your country's European committment and the progress you are making on the path to European integration are exclusion criteria we were guided by when we decided to come to Montenegro. We recognise your sincere will to truly be a part of the European Union, said the Senator Marta de Cidrac.

Senator Marta de Cidrac expressed France's readiness to further improve bilateral cooperation with Montenegro.

We care about the further development of our diplomatic and economic relations. The rule of law and stability, as you said yourself, are a prerequisite for building healthy relations. This visit should show our attitude towards you and we certainly want to promote France and the European values that you cherish. I assure you that you can rely on France, said Marta de Cidrac.

President of the France-Montenegro Friendship Group Vincent Segouin said that the French side is interested in projects related to Montenegrin airports, environmental protection and tourism, and that there are French companies that are ready to enter their implementation.

France sees Montenegro as a part of Europe, as a wonderful potential. We have the opportunity to develop those potentials and our cooperation with joint efforts, said Segouin.