Podgorica, 30 January 2025 – The Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Amer Kapetanovic, has kicked off his South East European tour with a visit to Podgorica, where he met with top Montenegrin officials to discuss strengthening regional cooperation, implementation of the Common Regional Market and Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, as well as the activities under the South East Europe 2030 (SEE2030) Strategy and Southeast Europe Cooperation Process (SEECP).

During his visit, Secretary General Kapetanovic met with Jakov Milatović, President of Montenegro, Andrija Mandić, President of the Parliament of Montenegro, and Ervin Ibrahimović, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. 

Discussions focused on regional economic cooperation, digital transformation, investment opportunities, building human capital and security collaboration, reinforcing Montenegro’s strong engagement in the RCC-led regional initiatives.

"Montenegro has an important role in shaping regional cooperation and advancing economic and political integration within the Western Balkans. Our discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to making regional agendas more impactful for businesses and citizens alike. The RCC remains dedicated to fostering initiatives that enhance economic growth, connectivity, and stability across the region," said RCC Secretary General Amer Kapetanovic.

Montenegrin officials emphasized the importance of the RCC’s role in driving forward regional cooperation and aligning with EU standards. They reiterated Montenegro’s commitment to the Common Regional Market and Green Agenda for the Western Balkans and stressed the need for deeper collaboration on SEECP priorities, security and SEE2030 Strategy. Moreover, they acknowledged RCC’s contribution to enhancing regional cooperation and strengthening region's capacity in closing the convergence gap with the EU.

A day earlier, Kapetanovic met with Johan Sattler, Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, as well as Maja Handjiska Trendafilova, Director of the Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA), and visited Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Center to explore opportunities for regional digital resilience and cybersecurity cooperation.

Kapetanovic’s visit to Montenegro marks the first stop in his broader tour of South East Europe, aimed at reinforcing regional partnerships and ensuring continued momentum on key cooperation priorities.