Japan-Montenegro Relations
Working Dinner between State Minister for Foreign Affairs KUNIMITSU and H.E. Mr. Jakov MILATOVIĆ, President of Montenegro, and his spouse
April 21, 2026
On April 20, from 6:30 p.m. for about 120 minutes, Dr. KUNIMITSU Ayano, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a working dinner with H.E. Mr.President Jakov Milatović, President of Montenegro and his spouse, who were visiting Japan. The overview is as follows:
- At the outset, State Minister KUNIMITSU welcomed President Milatović and his spouse on their first visit to Japan. She noted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Montenegro, and stated that she would like to further develop the cooperative relationship with Montenegro, an important partner that shares values and principles such as democracy and the rule of law. She also stated that, under the “Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative,” Japan would continue to support Montenegro’s efforts toward EU accession.
- In response, President Milatović expressed his gratitude for Japan’s long-standing cooperation and expressed his hope for the further development of bilateral relations, particularly in the economic area.
- The two sides also exchanged views on regional situations, including Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific, and concurred that, given the current challenging international circumstances, cooperation within the international community has become even more important.