President Nikos Christodoulides met with his Montenegrin counterpart, Jakov Milatovic, in Podgorica on Friday, in a visit focused on deepening ties and reaffirming support for Montenegro’s path to European Union membership.
Christodoulides arrived in Montenegro following an official stop in Belgrade, Serbia. The visit to Podgorica is part of his broader working trip to the Western Balkans.
Warmly welcoming the Cypriot leader, President Milatović described him as “a friend of Montenegro and a firm supporter of our European path.” He added that Cyprus’ consistent backing for Montenegro’s EU ambitions is highly valued.
The two leaders highlighted the close ties between their countries and the importance of cooperation. President Milatović also recalled his own visit to Nicosia in June 2024, saying this latest meeting was a natural follow-up and a sign of strong bilateral relations.
In response, President Christodoulides said he was pleased to be in Podgorica again, especially ahead of Cyprus assuming the presidency of the council of the European Union in the first half of 2026.
“My visit reflects the importance we place on the European perspective of the Western Balkans,” he said.
He pointed out that during Cyprus’ first EU council presidency in 2012, Montenegro opened and closed its first EU accession chapter. He expressed hope that by the next presidency in 2026, Montenegro would complete all negotiations and become the EU’s 28th member.
Both sides agreed to expand cooperation in trade, tourism, and economic development. The two presidents also discussed current regional affairs and ways to enhance mutual support in international fora.
Following their one-on-one meeting, the two delegations held extended talks.
