President Đukanović met with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk in Geneva where he attends the High-level Segment of the Human Rights Council

President of Montenegro Milo Đukanović met with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk in Geneva where he attends the High-level Segment of the Human Rights Council.

Appreciating the opportunity for the meeting, the President congratulated the High Commissioner on his appointment, wishing him every success in carrying out his important mission in a world with more than ever complex relations. He also expressed his appreciation for Commissioner Türk 's commitment to Montenegro and the region from his previous positions, looking forward to fruitful cooperation in the future as well. Emphasizing multilateralism as one of the most important priorities of national and foreign policy and considering Geneva the center of multilateralism in Europe, he welcomed the work of the UN Human Rights Office, with which we have open and mutually beneficial cooperation. We remain committed to the human rights principles and standards both as a NATO member and EU candidate country, the President said. He shared with Commissioner Türk his concerns about the deterioration of the situation in the region and the reflections of the aggression against Ukraine, emphasizing that strengthening stability remains a priority, being certain that the European system of values is a path towards stability and ensuring the preconditions for a democratic and economic development. In the context of the visible consequences of external influences on Montenegro, the President emphasized that we also see the Office's reactions to increasing tensions. Montenegro wants to remain a role model in the region regarding the improvement, protection and promotion of human rights, as a serious partner building a democratic society as an integral part of the European family in accordance with European values, the President said.

Commissioner Türk appreciated President Đukanović’s visit and the opportunity for an open and honest exchange. Your visit to the Human Rights Council carries a strong symbolism as it shows understanding that standing up for human rights is a way to overcome divisions. As a good connoisseur of the region and Montenegro, which left a highly positive impression on him, he said that he follows internal dynamics in the country, noting that direct consequences of the Ukrainian crisis can be felt. He pointed out that human rights as a universal category are the best way to achieve social cohesion, advising that through a practice of national consultations on human rights, society should gather around common interests and issues of the future. He welcomed the results of Montenegro regarding addressing the issue of refugees and the obligation it undertook to focus on the problems of vulnerable groups in the coming period, which unites society.

They agreed on the importance of a stronger presence of international organizations in the region with a view to protecting and reducing influence of third parties.

President Đukanović reiterated that Montenegro remains a serious partner of the OHCHR and that it will continue to provide full support for the integrity and independence of the Commissioner and the Office.