On 3 June 2006, Montenegro declared its independence, whereby it became the youngest state in Europe. On 12 June 2006, at a meeting of the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council in Luxembourg, EU foreign ministers adopted a common decision to recognise the Montenegrin Parliament's declaration of 3 June on the independence of the Republic of Montenegro. On the same day, both the Latvian and the Lithuanian foreign minister issued a joint statement recognising the independence of Montenegro.

Latvia established diplomatic relations with Montenegro on 19 June 2006. Presently Latvia does not have an ambassador accredited in Montenegro, nor does Montenegro have representation in Latvia.

Latvia and Montenegro enjoy friendly bilateral relations, which have a significant development potential, taking account of Montenegro's direction towards full integration into Europe and other international organizations. So far, no bilateral agreements have been concluded between Latvia and Montenegro.

On 10 September 2006, Montenegro held its first parliamentary elections since the restoration of independence that were recognized to be in accord with international standards. The goal of the newly elected government is to continue the course commenced by the country towards the increase of its people's welfare and towards joining Euro-Atlantic structures.

The potential of the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of the Balkan countries is the safest guarantee for ensuring peace, security, stability, and economic growth in the region. Being a member of the EU and NATO, Latvia supports the European and Euro-Atlantic prospects for Montenegro and other Western Balkan countries and welcomes the initiatives, which bring these countries closer to the European Union.

Montenegro's path towards EU membership depends on the reform process in the country and on its compliance with criteria set by the European Union. The date 10 October 2005 marked the beginning of negotiations with Montenegro on the signing of the Stabilization and Association Agreement. On 15 March, this agreement between Montenegro and the EU was initialled, and was due for signing in October 2007. The conclusion of the SAA is the first official step of this country towards EU membership.

In consideration of stability and progress achieved by Montenegro in the defence sector, Montenegro (along with Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina) was invited to join the NATO Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme on 29 November 2006, during the NATO Summit in Riga. Montenegro has thus taken the first step on its course towards integration into NATO. The President of Montenegro welcomes this decision, as it will promote the development of the country and its co-operation with neighbouring countries; he has also emphasized that Montenegro stands ready to fulfil the tasks set by NATO.

Montenegro's breathtaking scenery and rich culture is worth exploring. The World Travel and Tourism Council has named Montenegro as one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.

External links:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Montenegro: http://www.vlada.cg.yu/eng/mininos/

The President of the Republic of Montenegro: http://www.predsjednik.cg.yu/eng/   

EU Policy for the Western Balkans: http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement