LJUBLJANA/PODGORICA, 1 September 2025 – Director of the International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES)[1] Dr. Zijad Bećirović, met in Podgorica with Dr. Dritan Abazović, former Prime Minister of Montenegro and President of the Civic Movement URA.
In an open and dynamic conversation, the two leaders exchanged views on key political and social processes shaping the Western Balkans. Special attention was paid to the region's European integration, strengthening democratic institutions, the fight against crime and corruption, and the need for stability and security in times of global challenges.
Dr. Bećirović emphasized that “regional cooperation and mutual trust between the countries of the Western Balkans is a key prerequisite for accelerating the European path and long-term stability.”
Dr. Dritan Abazović emphasized that Montenegro remains committed to the European path, adding: “Our mission must be to transform the Western Balkans into a space of stability, development and mutual understanding. Only in this way can we retain young people, attract investments and build societies where knowledge, law and justice rule. The European Union is not only a political goal, but also a civilizational orientation that means more freedom, security and economic opportunities for our citizens. Montenegro is ready to continue to be a leader in this process and an example of constructive dialogue in the region.”
Both interlocutors also agreed that the future of the region lies in the European family and that additional efforts must be made in integration, economic development and building societies based on equality, knowledge and the rule of law.
The meeting took place in an exceptionally friendly atmosphere, and the common assessment at the end was that dialogue, cooperation and exchange of experiences are the only path to lasting peace and prosperity.
Ljubljana/Podgorica, 1 September 2025
[1] IFIMES - International Institute for Middle East and Balkan Studies, based in Ljubljana, Slovenia, has a special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council ECOSOC/UN in New York since 2018, and it is the publisher of the international scientific journal "European Perspectives." Available at: https://www.europeanperspectives.org/en
