First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Vesna Pusić 19 February met with Montenegrin Foreign Minister Igor Lukšić, who is on an official visit to Croatia. After the meeting, the two ministers signed the Economic Cooperation Agreement and the Tourism Cooperation Agreement. Pusić then handed Lukšić the Croatian translation of NATO's acquis.
Pusić said that Croatia was not leaving the region by joining the EU. “We are about to enter the EU, but we aren’t moving anywhere. The region will remain our interest and responsibility. The more we contribute to its stability and prosperity, the more we are worth as a country,” Pusić said, adding that Montenegro was the only country in the region negotiating EU membership and that Croatia was offering its experiences and know-how.
"Montenegro is ready for NATO membership,” Pusić said, “and that should contribute to the stability of the region.” As for bilateral issues, she said that a meeting of the mixed border commission was pending.
Lukšić thanked Croatia for its support in the EU and NATO integration processes, underlining the importance of Croatia's negotiating experience. As regards cooperation in defence, he praised Croatia’s commitment during its chairing of the US-Adriatic Charter.
Speaking about the agreements signed today, Lukšić was convinced they would lead to a series of joint projects in the future, adding that Montenegro would have the pleasure of bordering with the EU from 1 July. He was hopeful about finding a solution that would simplify entry into Croatia i.e. the European Union for Montenegrin citizens.