Macedonia-Montenegro cooperation - model in region
The signing of a protocol over collocation of diplomatic-consular offices of Macedonia and Montenegro in Paris is a good regional model demonstrating the countries' European orientation, agreed foreign ministers Nikola Poposki and Igor Luksic after Monday's meeting in Skopje.
"We are making efforts in producing such solutions that are cost-effective and send a political signal of cooperation expected from European-oriented countries. Paris is the first pioneer solution for our region. We are open for such cooperation in other regions and with other states", said Macedonian FM Poposki.
He stressed that Macedonia and Montenegro share excellent political relations, but additional incentive should be given to economic cooperation.
"In this regard, we are planning the appointment of chairs of a joint committee and launch of a joint group for economic cooperation", added Poposki.
He voiced satisfaction from the ongoing joint projects before the EU, such as harmonization of roaming regulations, exchange of police officers during the summer season, training of military personnel, cooperation between diplomatic academies and civil servants in other institutions, cultural exchange etc.
"We also referred to the countries' Euro-Atlantic path. We will try to use 2015 in the best way possible in creating a climate for sooner NATO accession of both states, as well as more intensive cooperation in the EU approximation process and implementation of European standards", said Poposki.
Montenegro FM Luksic said every bilateral meeting is used for talks on bilateral cooperation in many areas.
"The collocation protocol is important for both ministries, but even more significant from a regional point of view, since this practice is not that common. I believe this agreement will demonstrate the European capacity of our countries", he stressed.
Luksic said it is necessary to intensify efforts towards improving bilateral economic cooperation and possibilities for joint regional infrastructure projects, accompanied by elimination of diverse barriers in the region.
"We are working on the opening of an office of the national tourism organization within our Skopje-based embassy, and I believe both countries have interest in establishing a direct flight", underlined Luksic.