Montenegro joined this initiative at the previous summit in Copenhagen, confirming its commitment to the joint fight against organized crime and drug trafficking, as well as to strengthening European security.
Speaking about the challenges in the fight against organized crime, President Milatović thanked France for its support and cooperation in strengthening the capacity to fight organized crime, including the sky correspondences that contributed to the exposure of criminal networks. He pointed out that in the previous period, individuals within the system in Montenegro were part of the structures they were supposed to suppress, emphasizing that strengthening the integrity of institutions is a key prerequisite for an effective fight against crime.
Milatović expressed gratitude to Italy for its continued support in improving the legislative framework, especially in the preparation of anti-mafia legislation aimed at effectively targeting financial flows and assets acquired through criminal activities.
He stressed that Montenegro urgently needs an anti-mafia law that will enable more efficient verification of the origin of property and the confiscation of illegally acquired funds, noting that a significant portion of such property is located outside the country, which further imposes the need for stronger international cooperation.
During the meeting, key challenges in combating transnational crime were discussed, including port security, financial investigations and the growing threat of synthetic drugs, with an emphasis on the need for stronger coordination and information exchange among states.
Special focus was placed on port security, as one of the key points in the drug smuggling chain, highlighting the need for further strengthening of controls, modernization of surveillance systems, and stronger international cooperation to prevent the misuse of port infrastructure by organized criminal groups.
"Organized crime knows no borders, which is why our response cannot be limited to individual countries. Only by acting together and decisively can we be effective," said President Milatović.
Milatović concluded that Montenegro will continue to strengthen institutions, improve the legislative framework and contribute to joint European efforts, as a reliable partner in the fight against organized crime and protecting the safety of citizens.
