Montenegro’s FM Praises Türkiye’s Role in the Balkans

Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: Montenegro’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ervin Ibrahimovic, lauded Türkiye’s influential role in the Balkans, underscoring the deep historical and cultural connections between the two nations. Speaking at a joint press conference in Istanbul on Friday with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Ibrahimovic highlighted the crucial contributions of the cooperation between the NATO allies to regional stability and peace.

“This year, we celebrated the 145th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Türkiye in Montenegro. These relations will continue not only for these 145 years but also into the future. We share a common culture and heritage, which compels us to be much closer and pushes us to develop better relations,” Ibrahimovic stated.

He further emphasized the significant economic and commercial potential between Montenegro and Türkiye, noting the presence of large Turkish companies in Montenegro. “We have potential in every field, whether it be maritime or mining,” Ibrahimovic said, pointing to the extensive contributions of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), which has completed more than 400,000 projects in Montenegro.

The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of the Montenegrin diaspora in Türkiye, comprising over 100,000 people, referring to it as a “strong bridge” between the two friendly nations. He urged both countries to continuously strengthen these connections.

“My first official visit to Türkiye is one of the best messages that Montenegro wants to advance these relations,” Ibrahimovic remarked, discussing future cooperation plans as the two countries celebrate the 145th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

Expressing gratitude for Türkiye’s constructive role in the region, Ibrahimovic described Türkiye as a “symbol of stability and peace” for Montenegro, noting that this role is of great significance to his country.

In conclusion, Ibrahimovic called for the relationship between Montenegro and Türkiye to serve as a model for other nations in the region, highlighting the potential for collaboration in areas such as the economy, trade, infrastructure, and health.