“We want the issue of the rule of law to be seen in its entirety, and for the reforms not to remain only on paper”, says the French ambassador to Montenegro Christian Thimonier in an interview for Dan.
“Relations between France and Montenegro are characterized by our deep respect for the country that is proud of its tradition and which is more than anything committed to its sovereignty. We accepted it joining the Atlantic Alliance and we support it on its European path”, Mr Thimonier points out.
“Since the start of the negotiation process in 2012, Montenegro has opened all chapters of European legislation and closed 3 of them. It has thus positioned itself at the head of the countries of the region, which is an appreciated result. The period until 2025, which was pointed to by the European Commission in 2018, had to be marked by ‘strong political will, implementation of effective and sustainable reforms and a definitive settlement of disputes with neighbors’. There is still work to be done”, he explains. “
“With the democratic change of Government, the country has achieved more. It is a proof of maturity and a crucial stage, both for the member states and for their public opinion. Successful cohabitation between the President and the new parliamentary majority now needs to be achieved. Everyone now needs to show that the national interest is above the party interest”, he stresses.
Mr Thimonier refers to the parliamentary majority’s intention to adopt a set of judicial laws, saying that the Venice Commission expressed its reasoned opinion. The Prime Minister confirmed that this opinion would be followed. It remains to find practical ways to implement the expected reforms in order, with the widest possible consensus, without compromising the previously welcomed progress made”, he concludes.
