NO LESS than the prime minister (PM) of Montenegro wants a Philippine consulate in their country amid efforts to strengthen diplomacy and cooperation with Manila. 

“I hope for the Philippines to open a consulate in our country because you have consulates in countries around us,” Montenegro Prime Minister Dritan Abazovнc was quoted telling President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. when they met in Malacaсang last Aug. 31.  

“Having that kind of diplomatic place where we can share not just services for the people but also share contacts in the business community…can be very productive. In that sense, I see that the role of Philippines will have more impact in Europe,” Mr. Abazovнc said. 

The two leaders agreed to establish stronger tourism exchanges, with Mr. Abazovнc also raising the possibility of having connecting flights from Manila to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. 

“Tourism has become also very important for the Philippines, and we see it as an important part of the transformation of the economy because during the pandemic, it was zero. So, now we have to build back,” Mr. Marcos said during their meeting. 

They also discussed “technology transfer and expertise exchange” on energy sources, as Montenegro is known for harnessing wind and solar power. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR