Montenegro prime minister says NATO invitation historic day
- 8 years ago
NATO's membership invitation to Montenegro represents a historic day for the tiny Adriatic state, the most important since the 2006 independence referendum, the prime minister said Wednesday.
NATO member states on Wednesday formally invited Montenegro to join the alliance in the face of Russian opposition.
"Montenegro is entering the exclusive circle of states which are synonymous with the highest values of modern civilization," Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic said.
"This is a crown jewel of the long-standing national efforts and comprehensive reform processes launched in 2006."
Russia, which has traditionally strong religious, cultural and historic influence in the Balkans, has been opposed to Montenegro's membership bid, fueling anti-NATO sentiments among many Montenegrins.
NATO member states on Wednesday formally invited Montenegro to join the alliance in the face of Russian opposition.
"Montenegro is entering the exclusive circle of states which are synonymous with the highest values of modern civilization," Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic said.
"This is a crown jewel of the long-standing national efforts and comprehensive reform processes launched in 2006."
Russia, which has traditionally strong religious, cultural and historic influence in the Balkans, has been opposed to Montenegro's membership bid, fueling anti-NATO sentiments among many Montenegrins.