Michael Roth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Bundestag and former Minister for Europe of Germany, in an interview with the Montenegrin newspaper “Pobjeda” stated that he is concerned about the close ties of some Montenegrin politicians with the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić. According to Roth, Vučić has proven to be an unreliable partner for the region. Such alliances, according to him, undermine Montenegro’s European aspirations.
“It is concerning when Montenegrin politicians are closely tied to a leader who has proven to be an unreliable partner for the EU and the region. Such alliances can undermine Montenegro’s European aspirations. The country’s leaders must prioritize their commitment to the EU’s democratic values and principles to stay on the right path. The country now has a real chance to overcome divisions, whether ethnic, religious, or political, in a joint effort to join the European Union – this chance is unique and time-sensitive and should not be undermined,” the deputy emphasized.
Speaking about the role of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro and the findings that it is under the direct influence of Vučić and acts as an executor of Russian influence, Roth says he is concerned about this.
“I fully understand and respect that many citizens of Montenegro find their spiritual home in the Serbian Orthodox Church; this is a matter of religious freedom, a fundamental human right. However, I am deeply concerned about the political influence of the Serbian Orthodox Church, particularly its involvement in Montenegro’s education system and its influence on the youth. In this sense, the role of the Church in Montenegro is concerning. I agree with the European Parliament’s assessment that the Serbian Orthodox Church acts as a channel of Russian influence and poses a threat to Montenegro’s European integration.”