- Published: 10.02.2017.
Meeting of Adriatic Trilateral initiative’s foreign ministers
On 10 February 2017 in Split, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Davor Ivo Stier, together with Montenegrin Foreign Minister Srđan Darmanović and Albanian Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati, inaugurated the Croatia-launched Adriatic Trilateral initiative
On 10 February 2017 in Split, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Davor Ivo Stier, together with Montenegrin Foreign Minister Srđan Darmanović and Albanian Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati, inaugurated the Croatia-launched Adriatic Trilateral initiative, after which they signed the Joint Declaration.
The initiative was launched following the excellent relations between the three countries, creating a foundation for advancement and deepening of trilateral cooperation, which is crucial for further contributions to the stability and security of this part of Europe as well as for the Euro-Atlantic integration process, given Southeast Europe’s strategic importance for the EU and NATO. The initiative will also serve to intensify the trilateral dialogue on issues of common interest.
Some of the key areas include political dialogue (also in regard to the Euro-Atlantic integration), regional and international security, environmental protection, economy and tourism, transport, as well as energy and infrastructure. The Adriatic Trilateral will also focus on enhancing the cooperation in dealing with the challenges of extremism, terrorism and security. The Joint Declaration paints a clear intent on the part of the three countries to realize the full potential of bilateral and trilateral cooperation’s capacity to form a strong partnership between Croatia, Montenegro and Albania.
Stier reiterated Croatia’s support for Montenegro’s further progress in the EU accession talks and Albania’s opening them as soon as possible. He said Croatia looked forward to welcoming Montenegro as a full-fledged member of NATO and agreed with his counterparts on the importance of cooperating within the US-Adriatic Charter in defence and military cooperation – areas which will be covered by the Adriatic Trilateral as well.