OSCE Chairperson discusses reforms and calls for regional efforts to solve refugees' situation during visit to Montenegro

PODGORICA, 5 July 2011 – The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Audronius Ažubalis, visited Montenegro today and emphasized that the OSCE will continue to support the country's efforts to build strong democratic foundations.

“The OSCE Mission is working closely with the authorities to strengthen democratic institutions and to promote a dynamic and active civil society. I also encourage my counterparts to continue efforts in combating corruption and organized crime,” said Ažubalis.

During the visit, Ažubalis met President Filip Vujanović, Prime Minister Igor Lukši, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integrations Milan Roćen, Speaker of the Parliament Ranko Krivokapić and representatives of civil society.

“It is very positive that the government, the civil society and the OSCE Mission are working together to improve the legal framework for non-governmental organizations in Montenegro. A vibrant civil society is an essential component of a healthy democracy,” Ažubalis said after the meeting with civil society representatives, who briefed him on their work to fight corruption and organized crime, and to promote human rights.

Ažubalis also visited displaced persons living in the Konik camp to discuss the problems they face.

“The plight of the displaced persons is one of the terrible legacies of the wars in the region. The OSCE and its partners in the international community are working to help resolve this problem. This can only be done effectively through a regional approach, in which Montenegro plays an important part,” said Ažubalis.

He welcomed the Montenegrin authorities' work to improve the living conditions and integrate the displaced into society, before the deadline .

The OSCE Head of Mission to Montenegro, Ambassador Šarunas Adomavićius; the UNHCR Field Assistant, Jovica Zaric, the Bureau for the Care of Refugees representative, Zeljka Ratkovic, and the Secretary General of the Red Cross to Montenegro, Jelena Darmanović accompanied Ažubalis during his visit to the camp.