Klus: Slovakia Still One of Most Vocal Supporters of Montenegro's EU Accession

Bratislava, July 21 (TASR) - Slovakia will continue to be one of the most vocal supporters of Montenegro, championing its accession to the EU, Foreign and European Affairs Ministry state secretary Martin Klus stated during his visit to Podgorica on Wednesday, TASR learnt from the ministry press department on the same day. Klus was on an official visit to Montenegro in July 19-20, 2021, at the invitation of his counterpart Ljubomir Misurovic, with whom Klus held bilateral consultations. Klus also met with Montenegrin Chief Negotiator for the EU Accession Zorka Kordic and Montenegrin Parliamentary Chair Aleks Becic. The fulcrum of the talks was the European integration of Montenegro, cooperation within NATO and the situation in Western Balkans region, but also potential avenues for expanding bilateral ties between Podgorica and Bratislava. "We don't perceive Montenegro only as an important ally, but also as a friend. I'm glad that political contacts between our countries are not fading away and that there is willingness to translate them into specific trade and economic projects," stated Klus. Representatives of Montenegro thanked Slovakia for its longstanding support of its European aspirations and also for specific aid extended to the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exceeded €100,000. mf