Montenegro makes excuses: We are against sanctions, but we are forced to dance to the tune of the EU
Montenegro has to focus its foreign policy on the EU, of which this country wants to become a member.
Montenegrin Minister of Economic Development Jakov Milatović stated this, as reported by PolitNavigator , in response to a question about why his country joined the anti-Russian sanctions.
“Montenegro is the first candidate country on the list for joining the EU; for several years we have been following the European Union 100% in foreign policy. And, naturally, sanctions are all the result of such a policy. On my own behalf, I can say that, in general, sanctions are perhaps not the best mechanism for resolving international disputes. The Government of Montenegro believes that dialogue is the key answer to any international problem. And this is the only mechanism that can contribute to deepening mutual understanding, which is usually necessary to solve international problems,” Milatovic said.
Direct investment from Russia to Montenegro increased by about 2020% in 25, despite the pandemic and tensions between Moscow and Brussels, he said.
“In general, I think that it is very important for the Russian Federation that the Western Balkans region, Montenegro, in particular, move along the path to the EU, because this is the path through which we can quickly carry out structural reforms, improve the quality of institutions, the rule of law and in general, improve the quality of life in Montenegro and the rest of the region, which again benefits Russian investors, tourists and, in general, international trade between our countries,” the minister believes.
“Russian citizens are the largest owners of real estate in Montenegro. They choose our country because of cultural similarities, geographical location, because it’s only two hours by plane from Moscow. And also the Mediterranean climate and many other things that unite our countries, for example certain historical moments when the Russian Federation was a big supporter of Montenegro and other Western Balkan countries in their fight against some major foreign powers,” Milatovic said.
Montenegro justifies itself : We are against sanctions, but are forced to dance to the EU's tune.