PM Krivokapić spoke with French President Macron

Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapić talked tonight via video link with President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron.

The two officials discussed bilateral relations, European integration, regional cooperation and the epidemiological situation.

Prime Minister Krivokapić told the French President that he especially appreciates the expressed readiness of France to support the reform processes in Montenegro and the fulfillment of obligations from the demanding European negotiating agenda.

The Prime Minister pointed out that, even in difficult conditions due to the coronavirus pandemic, a high degree of solidarity and successful cooperation between Montenegro and France was shown, and thanked France for its help to the Montenegrin health system.

PM Krivokapić emphasised that the Government of Montenegro's membership in the EU is a strategic goal on which his Government consistently works and invests maximum efforts, through 100% harmonization of foreign and security policy with EU policies. Krivokapić thanked for the continuous support in the field of European integration that France provides to our country, both bilaterally and through active participation in the Berlin process.

"It is essential for Montenegro that France's support for the EU integration process does not slow down, but that it is continuously improved and expanded. We are ready to, especially during the French presidency of the EU, intensify cooperation and achieve a result that is appropriate for a candidate country, which is currently closest to EU membership," said Prime Minister Krivokapić.

The Prime Minister emphasised that Montenegrin-French cooperation is achieved in many areas, but also that there is certainly a huge potential for their further improvement. Krivokapić stressed that he highly appreciates the support of France in the promotion of Montenegro as an attractive investment and safe tourist destination.

"Strengthening our cooperation in the field of tourism is extremely important for Montenegro, because we notice the growing interest of French tourists to spend their holidays in Montenegro. We hope that the existing efforts that the Government is investing in the process of mass immunization will be successful and that Montenegro will welcome the summer as a covid-safe destination," said Prime Minister Krivokapić.

The French President said that the Government of Montenegro has the support of France on the European path and expressed hope that this path, along with the implementation of the necessary reforms, will be accelerated in the coming period.

"I wish that strategic relations between France and Montenegro progress. I wish you to successfully fight corruption and build the institutions of your country. Every time you want to talk about some topics, I will be there with you," Macron said.

President Macron emphasised that France wants to be present in the entire region, and to participate in economic projects and to help in the area of the rule of law. Macron invited Krivokapić to visit France, saying that he would like to visit Montenegro soon.