The Turkish Ambassador to Montenegro, Baris Kalkavan, announced that Turkish tourists will soon benefit from nearly visa-free travel to Montenegro. This development is expected to enhance tourism and strengthen ties between the two nations. The announcement came during a recent visit to the coastal town of Bar, where Kalkavan met with local Turkish citizens and officials.
During his visit, Ambassador Kalkavan was accompanied by Dušan Raičević, the Mayor of Bar, and Šahret Hajdarpasić, the Honorary Consul of Turkey in Montenegro. They discussed the impact of recent events that had affected local businesses and the Turkish community in Montenegro. The ambassador revealed that initiatives are underway to restore jobs that were lost due to these incidents, with support from both Montenegrin and Turkish entrepreneurs who have launched humanitarian efforts.
Kalkavan expressed gratitude towards local security forces and municipal bodies for their effective measures in preventing further incidents across various cities. He highlighted the commendable response from the police and security units, noting that their efforts played a crucial role in maintaining public safety.
In addition to addressing security concerns, Ambassador Kalkavan also commended the Montenegrin people for their solidarity in the face of recent challenges. He noted that citizens have actively engaged in counter-campaigns against misinformation and xenophobia, fostering a spirit of unity.
The ambassador underscored the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations between Turkey and Montenegro. He pointed out that Milojko Spajić, Montenegro’s Prime Minister, and Ervin Ibrahimović, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, are currently in contact with senior officials in Turkey to further enhance bilateral cooperation.
Kalkavan emphasized that the Turkish community in Montenegro contributes significantly to the social, cultural, and economic landscape of the country. He mentioned that approximately 200,000 Turkish tourists visit Montenegro each year, underlining the potential for increased tourism once visa restrictions are eased.
Looking ahead, the ambassador expressed optimism about the future of tourism between Turkey and Montenegro. He stated that the expected easing of visa requirements would allow Turkish tourists to visit Montenegro with greater ease and confidence. He believes this will not only boost tourism but also strengthen the already positive relations between the two countries.
In conclusion, Ambassador Kalkavan highlighted the need for trust in institutions and the rule of law as a response to recent challenges. He stated that the recent events have only solidified the already strong connections between the Turkish and Montenegrin peoples. As both nations continue to work together, the future looks promising for tourism and cultural exchange.
