Montenegro's Diplomatic Network Criticized for Lack of Ambassadors and Political Appointments

Montenegro's diplomatic network is facing criticism for having key embassies without ambassadors for years, including Berlin, and for political appointments being made without regard for professional criteria. Andrija Nikolić, head of the Club of MPs of the Democratic Party of Socialists, argues that diplomacy should not be a party prize, but rather a state profession. He points out that while the government talks about European integrations, some embassies are understaffed or functioning at a lower level. Nikolić also criticizes the appointment of a new general consul in Istanbul, questioning the end of a parliamentary mandate and the fulfillment of prerequisites for a diplomatic function. Valentina Minić, MP of Democrats, responds by providing data that shows political appointments were common under DPS rule, with half of the ambassadors in 2019 not being career diplomats.