The Prime Minister of Montenegro Mr. Milo Djukanovic, Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative for the Southeast Europe Ambassador Thomas Mayr Harting, deputy of Eastern Europe Stability Pact special coordinator Mr. John Riddle, former president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Mr. Charles R. Frank Junior and HRH Crown Prince Alexander II spoke at the Summit opening

Belgrade, 24 February 2003 – TRH Crown Prince Alexander II and Crown Princess Katherine attended the opening of “The Third Summit of Serbia and Montenegro” at the “Hyatt Regency” hotel in Belgrade today, organized by the Greek company “TGI Hellas”, under patronage of many local and international companies.

“TGI Hellas” has organized this international conference and fair for the third time, with the aim to establish contacts and cooperation between international companies, local companies and the government. Local companies will have the opportunity to present their products and services to the local and international participants and delegates.

Main topics of this conference are : political stability and economic cooperation in Southeast Europe; macroeconomic stability – programs and reforms in Serbia and Montenegro; economic development of the Balkans and the possibilities of investments in Serbia; presentation of the projects in energy, transport, construction, real estate, tourism, telecommunication and high technology in Serbia and Montenegro; aspects of business cooperation in Southeast Europe, and finance and the future of Serbia and Montenegro.

The present were first addressed by Mr. Simeon Tsomokos, the director of “TGI Hellas”, who said:

“This Summit is, without doubt, taking place at the time of great international development and mutual friendship. I hope we will meet these changes in a better and safer environment for all peoples and in all regions, and that it will continue to be so in the years to come. We salute the great changes in our region, as well as the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro, which is an important step toward integration into European Union. I wish to express hope that this union will be a solid warrant of political stability in this region”.

Then followed the address of the Prime Minister of Montenegro Mr. Milo Djukanovic, who thanked the organizers for the opportunity to present the plans and current courses of events in Montenegro to this distinguished gathering, as well as the achievements of the reforms in Montenegro.

The Prime Minister of Montenegro Mr. Milo Djukanovic pointed out that this is the time of intensive, positive changes in Montenegro and Serbia regarding their cooperation.

HRH Crown Prince Alexander II then delivered his speech.

Addressing the distinguished audience, Crown Prince Alexander II reminded that our country has just begun its road of transition into democracy, market economy and the effort to create a modern and law-abiding society, and added:

“We had to tackle a devastated economy, financial institutions, utility systems, and a decline of basic moral and social values. That was just part of the concerns the new government faced upon taking office. We strived to become members once again of European and international organizations and eventually a member of the European Union. I am proud to say our democratic governments in Montenegro and Serbia continue to skilfully and tirelessly work on reforms, promote our country’s opportunities and encourage investors. Our governments continue to strive to overcome extremely tough situations in all sectors that also include health care and social services”.

The Crown Prince Expressed his belief that the participants of this Summit will hear all about the exceptional opportunities from our government experts and other contributors today and tomorrow.

In conclusion of his speech to the present, the Crown Prince added:

“We are grateful to those of you who have already invested in country. We look forward to more investments, partnerships and lasting friendship. I wish you all the very best and look forward to warmly welcoming you this evening at The White Palace”.

Among many invitees and participants of the conference were the representatives of Serbian and Federal Government, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Goran Svilanovic, Minister of International Relationships Mr. Goran Pitic, Governor of the National Bank Mr. Mladjan Dinkic, Minister of Transport and Telecommunication Mrs. Marija Raseta Vukosavljevic, representatives of the diplomatic corps, numerous local and international businessmen as well as the cultural and public life personages of our country.

“The Third Summit of Serbia and Montenegro” is on today and tomorrow, 24 and 25 February, at the “Hyatt Regency” hotel in Belgrade.

Their Royal Highnesses are organizing a reception for all participants of the conference at The White Palace in Dedinje tonight.