site.btaBulgarian Ambassador in Podgorica, Montenegro's Foreign Minister Discuss Bilateral Relations

The Bulgarian Ambassador in Podgorica, Stefan Dimitrov, convened with Montenegro's Deputy Prime Minister for International Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimovic here on October 18, the Bulgarian Embassy in Montenegro reported on its Facebook page. The two discussed mutual support for each country's candidacy within the UN system, the results of the municipal council elections in Podgorica, the results of the population and housing census in Montenegro, as well as the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bulgaria.

Ibrahimovic was grateful for Bulgaria's systematic support for Montenegro's European integration. He underscored the historical and cultural connection between the two countries and expressed hope that steps would be taken to deepen bilateral relations in the fields of culture, education, tourism and economy. The Minister noted that 42 Montenegrins serve in the Multinational Battle Group in the Novo Selo Training Area in Bulgaria, thus contributing to the collective defence and security of NATO's Eastern flank. He announced that an Honorary Consulate of Montenegro will be opened in Lovech, North Central Bulgaria, on October 23, which he described as a clear sign of Montenegro's desire to strengthen cooperation with Bulgaria.

Dimitrov stressed that Bulgaria remains firmly committed to supporting Montenegro's European integration and is ready to provide expertise in the negotiation process for full membership in the EU. He reported that Bulgaria confirms its strong support for the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans and fully backs Montenegro's reform agenda.

Dimitrov briefed the Minister on the official development assistance provided by Bulgaria. Since 2019, a total of 10 projects have been successfully completed and three new projects are being implemented, with the total value of funding for Montenegro under Bulgaria's official development assistance being over EUR 500,000.

The Ambassador stressed the need to ensure transport connectivity between Bulgaria and Montenegro and to establish a direct air route between the two capitals. The Minister agreed that such a route would be of key importance.

Dimitrov said that Bulgaria will be a guest country at the 19th International Book Fair in Podgorica in May 2025. An initiative entitled Days of Bulgarian Culture is planned as part of the event, which will meet the Montenegrin public with Bulgarian authors and will introduce our country's achievements in folklore and drama.