Ibrahimović received newly appointed ambassador of the Republic of Italy and non-resident ambassadors of Iran and Namibia in separate introductory visits

The Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ervin Ibrahimović, today received in separate introductory visits the newly appointed ambassador of the Republic of Italy, Laura Egoli; the non-resident ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Montenegro, based in Belgrade, Muhamed Sadek Fazlija; and the non-resident ambassador of the Republic of Namibia to Montenegro, based in Vienna, Vasko Muše Samupofua. During the meeting with Italian ambassador Laura Egoli, Minister Ibrahimović congratulated her on assuming office and wished her a successful term, expressing confidence that her engagement will contribute to further development of the traditionally close and friendly relations between the two countries. The interlocutors confirmed that Montenegro and Italy maintain intensive political dialogue and substantive cooperation in numerous areas of mutual interest, with mutual readiness to further enhance economic ties, investment cooperation, and partnership in culture, education, and tourism. He emphasized that Montenegro, with all open negotiating chapters and 18 temporarily closed ones, confirms its status as the most advanced candidate country for EU membership, and that the achieved results show it is ready to become the next member of the Union, not only geographically but also in terms of values, through reforms and adoption of European standards. In this context, the minister especially welcomed the strong messages conveyed at the recent meeting of the Group of Friends of the Western Balkans in Rome, organized at the initiative of Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, where it was reaffirmed that the future of the Western Balkans belongs to the European Union and that the policy of enlargement is a strategic investment in the security, stability, and prosperity of the entire European continent. Minister Ibrahimović also received the ambassador of the Republic of Namibia, Vasko Muše Samupofua, to whom he wished a successful mandate, highlighting that his appointment presents a good opportunity to intensify bilateral contacts and develop more substantive cooperation.