"The Vice President told the Prime Minister the United States supports Montenegro’s membership in NATO provided that Montenegro continues pursuing reforms and boosts popular support for NATO accession," the statement read.
Biden told Djukanovic that "contingent upon further progress" of those areas, Washington would be prepared to extend a membership invitation to Montenegro during the December meeting of NATO foreign ministers, according to the White House.
"The Vice President and Prime Minister agreed that Montenegro’s membership in NATO would firmly anchor Montenegro in Euro-Atlantic institutions, promote greater regional stability in the Balkans and demonstrate the credibility of NATO’s Open Door policy," the statement noted.
Biden commended Djukanovic for Montenegro’s efforts to advance in the areas of defense, intelligence and the rule of law reforms, and urged him to make progress in fighting corruption and organized crime.
Russia has expressed concern over NATO’s growing military presence in Eastern Europe, warning that it could be a threat to regional security.
