State Visit of President Mattarella to Montenegro: “EU Enlargement to Western Balkans is Essential”

In the context of his two-day state visit to Montenegro, the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, met with his Montenegrin counterpart Jakov Milatovic at the Presidential Palace Plavi Dvorac in Cetinje. After military honors, The two heads of state had a private meeting, followed by an extended meeting of their respective delegations and a joint press conference.

Mattarella: “A world that respects international law”

Speaking at a press conference, President Mattarella stressed the importance of respecting international law for a stable and just world order. "The world we would like is one that respects international law“, said the Italian Head of State.

Italy and the conflict in Ukraine

Mattarella reiterated Italy's clear position regarding the conflict in Ukraine.For three years now, Italy's position has been clear, limpid, and crystal clear: respect for international law and the sovereignty of every State, whether small or large. This firm, vigorous affirmation has been the basis of the support that Italy, with the EU and the US, has ensured for Ukraine. This position has always been accompanied by the hope that Russia will return to its role in compliance with the principles of the sovereignty of States", he has declared. The President expressed hope that Russia will return to respecting the UN Charter and international law., thus promoting a “just, not fictitious” peace in Ukraine.

The Role of NATO and European Security

Mattarella also spoke about the role of NATO, underlining its solidity and resilience over time: “NATO has a strong history and there is nothing that can break the bond. It has been strengthened by history and by the results achieved.".

The enlargement of the European Union to the Western Balkans

One of the central themes of the meeting between the two Presidents was theenlargement of the European Union to the Western Balkans. Mattarella has defined Montenegro's entry into the EU as "indispensable" and "urgent", adding that Italy is actively committed to supporting the Balkan country's accession process.The 2028 goal is achievable and Montenegro is well advanced on this path", he has declared.

President Milatovic expressed his appreciation for Italy's strong support for Montenegro's European integrationor, declaring that the country's goal is to become a member of the EU by 2028, the year in which Italy will assume the presidency of the European Union.

The historical link between Italy and Montenegro

During the press conference, Mattarella recalled his visit to Montenegro in 2015 and underlined the deep historical ties between the two countries.the. “The intensity of our interactions is demonstrated by the numerous meetings at political and institutional level, which demonstrate the solidity of our friendship.", he has declared.

The fight for legality and the future of new generations

The Italian President also emphasized the importance of legality as a fundamental value for the future of young generations.The fight for legality is essential to guarantee a better future for our young people and to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for this principle.“, declared Mattarella.

Upcoming events and meetings

Mattarella's visit to Montenegro also includes participation in theopening of the exhibition "Montenegro and Italy: meeting of two peoples”. In addition, the President met with the Italian community residing in Montenegro, underlining the value of their presence as a cultural and diplomatic bridge between the two countries.

"Italians who live and work abroad are the face of our country in international daily life. Montenegro and Italy are not separated, but united by the Adriatic“, stated the Head of State.

Mattarella's visit to Montenegro is part of a context of strengthening bilateral relations and supporting the European integration of the Western Balkans. The President reaffirmed Italy's commitment to international stability, the promotion of peace and respect for international law., highlighting the importance of ever closer cooperation between the two countries.