Mr Roberto Ciambetti, co-Chair of the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) with Montenegro in the Committee of the Regions, urges incoming administrations in Montenegro “to solve all differences at national, regional, and local level through democratic dialogue in accordance with our common European values".

His call falls into the context of the elections of 30 August that ousted the ruling Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), which had been in power since 1990. Partial local elections held on the same day removed the DPS from power in four of five municipalities where votes were held.
The national and local elections took place in a tense atmosphere and with a record 77% turnout for a general election. Talks on the formation of a new national government continue. The elections came at a point when Montenegro – like all other European states – is battling with the effects of the coronavirus.

In addition to Mr Ciambetti's call for dialogue at the meeting of the JCC on 18 November, discussions on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on Montenegro were also held. Local and regional politicians from the EU and Montenegro agreed that Montenegro will need the strong support of the European Union to cope with major economic and political changes and to ensure that it becomes a member of the EU.

President of the Veneto Regional Council, Mr Ciambetti co-chairs the JCC, some of whose aims are to promote dialogue and cooperation on relevant issues of mutual interest between the local and regional authorities from the EU and Montenegro's local authorities as well as to promote at local level European fundamental values.