NATO invitation is a big step for Montenegro, important for the future processes of strengthening stability in the region, but it is necessary to continue further reforms in the society, by strengthening the rule of law and political dialogue - it was assessed during the meeting of Vice President of the Parliament Mr Suljo Mustafić and the State Department officials in New York.

Vice President Mustafić stressed the importance of partnering relations, voicing gratitude for the USA support in NATO integration and democratisation of the society

Director Yazdgerdi stressed the openness for further cooperation and full support to Montenegro and its institutions in further reforms and integration processes.

During the talk with Director of the State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Mr Philip Kaplan and Head of the sector for Montenegro Mr David Mayer, it was noted that visible results have been achieved in the protection of human and minority rights in Montenegro, but, on the other hand, it was necessary to work a lot in order to fully implement the adopted laws. Montenegro has preserved stability and multinational harmony, but it is necessary to work with a special attention on strengthening institutions for protection of minorities, providing their greater integration in civil processes and enabling economic investments in environments where minorities lived. In addition, the need for strengthening the rule of law was pointed out and more efficient fight against corruption and organised crime at all levels of the society.

In the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Mr Mustafić talked with Mr Joseph Manso and Mr Eric Simon, Head of the section for Montenegro, on strengthening further cooperation in the defence and security field. The achieved level of partnering relations has been confirmed by good cooperation in equipping and training the Military of Montenegro, participation in joint allied mission and overall progress of Montenegro in Euro-Atlantic integration.

In the Bureau of Counterterrorism, Mr Mustafić spoke with Mr Mark Norman, Director of the Office for the Balkans on the improvement of coordinated and partnering actions aimed at more efficient fight against global problem of terrorism.

During his visit to the State Department, Mr Mustafić met a Special Coordinator for Office of Global Criminal Justice Mr Todd Buchwald and spoke with him on the issues related to the processing of war crimes.

Montenegro’s Ambassador to Washington Mr Srđan Darmanović attended the meetings in the State Department.

Upon the invitation of members of the Congress, Mr Mustaić attends the National Prayer Breakfast, in Washington, hosted by the American President Mr Barack Obama.

In the following days, Mr Mustafić will meet in New York and Chicago representatives of the Association of emigrants originating from Montenegro.