Bečić meets newly appointed British Ambassador to Montenegro Nerys Jones

Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defence, Fight Against Crime and Internal Policy Aleksa Bečić hosted a meeting with newly appointed British Ambassador to Montenegro Nerys Jones, with whom he discussed Montenegro's European path, security challenges and further strengthening of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Bečić noted that, following three years in office, the current Government is entering its fourth year with numerous reforms implemented, functional institutions and historic progress on Montenegro's European path.

An incredible success has been achieved on the European path, which at the beginning of the Government's term seemed like an impossible mission to many. The accession negotiations have entered their final phase, and Montenegro is nearing the completion of all remaining obligations, namely the closing benchmarks. Montenegro as the next EU Member State is a strong message both for our country and for the EU and the entire region, the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of cooperation between Montenegro and the United Kingdom in the areas of security, defence and the fight against organised crime, as well as on the two countries' credible partnership within NATO. Bečić thanked the British partners for their continued support, expert assistance, donations to institutions aimed at strengthening their capacities, and training of Montenegrin personnel.

He noted that the reform of the security sector is based on integrity checks, strengthening human resources, professionalisation and improving the legal framework, stressing that the confiscation of unlawfully acquired assets is one of the key instruments for delivering the strongest blow to criminal structures.

That is why the adoption of the new anti-mafia law is so important, as it provides the competent institutions with the tools needed for the effective and permanent confiscation of assets belonging to criminal structures. The continuous prosecution and detention of criminals, cleansing the system of their accomplices and severing criminal links within institutions, together with the confiscation of their ill-gotten assets, means dismantling the foundations and power pyramids that have been built over decades, Bečić said.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that it is crucial to build a system of strong institutions in which no one can be untouchable. There is no name or surname that can be protected. The State is finally above everyone. We have adopted numerous reform laws in the field of security. What is crucial is that they provide the competent authorities with the tools to restore order and ensure that everyone is treated absolutely equally. One such example is the new Road Traffic Safety Law. A reform law, modern equipment and equal treatment for all are essential to improving this area. An orderly system and equal rules for everyone best protect all citizens and the State, and above all our young people and our future, Bečić stressed.

British Ambassador Jones noted that since arriving in Montenegro, she had had the opportunity to hear more about the commitment of Montenegrin institutions to reforms and strengthening security. Montenegro and the United Kingdom cooperate as close allies and partners. Through our cooperation within NATO, the fight against organised crime and support for strengthening institutions, we contribute to a shared goal: a safer and more stable region. I look forward to further developing this partnership during my tenure, she added.

Bečić and Ambassador Jones agreed that Montenegro and the United Kingdom will continue to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with a particular focus on security, defence, the fight against organised crime, as well as support for Montenegro's reforms on its European path.