Podgorica, (MINA) – The USA sees Montenegro as the most advanced EU candidate country, said Deputy Assistant US State Secretary Alexander Kasanof, adding that with the EU membership the relations between the two countries will become even stronger.

Deputy PM for Foreign and European Affairs, Filip Ivanovic, met on Wednesday with Kasanof, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Kasanof underscored that the USA values the relations with Montenegro, finding it an important partner in the Western Balkans.

He emphasized that the USA fully supports the EU enlargement process, perceiving Montenegro as the most advanced candidate country.

Ivanovic stressed that Montenegro pays special attention to the development of the relations with the USA, both bilaterally and through the formats that strengthen the alliance and partnership between the two countries.

Ivanovic also participated in the working lunch, hosted by the EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy Josep Borrell.

According to the press release from Ivanovic’s office, the meeting discussed the negotiation process of the candidate countries and the potential candidates, and underscored the progress Montenegro has achieved this year.

Borrell said that the EU is preparing for the new enlargement and that the wish of the European Commission is that it happens.

Ivanovic introduced the meeting about the Montenegro’s current status in the EU accession process and thanked Borrell for the support he provides to Montenegro.