The new building of the United States Embassy was officially opened in Podgorica.
"This building represents respect for Montenegro and is built with stone from Nikšić," said the US Ambassador to Montenegro, Judy Rising Reinke, during the opening ceremony.
She added that the US makes difficult decisions on security, energy and economic issues.
"The difficult decisions we make will bring prosperity to America, Montenegro, and the entire democratic community," Rising Reinke said.
Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović said that the opening of the new US Embassy building demonstrates the US's commitment to Montenegro.
"This event is not just ceremonial, it is much more important than that. The principles of democracy, the rule of law and freedom shape our partnership," he stressed.
He said that when Montenegro becomes the next member of the European Union, America will have another friend in the European family.
"Even though we differ geographically, our values are the same," said Milatovic.
The Director of the US Office of Overseas Facilities Construction (OBO), Patricia Lesina, said that the new Embassy building represents a lasting investment in the relationship between the two countries.
"This project represents a major local economic investment of approximately 71 million dollars," Lesina emphasized.
The US government has invested $264 million in the construction of the first part of the new complex, the Embassy announced. In the second phase, which is currently under development, it is expected that the remaining two facilities will be built by 2027.
Construction began in 2020.
The new complex, designed to the highest standards of efficiency and safety, reflects the United States' enduring commitment to Montenegro, the US Embassy in Montenegro said in a statement./ REL (A2 Televizion)
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