Montenegro Condemns Violence Against Turkish Nationals, Reinforces Security

Montenegro has taken a firm stance against violence following an incident that occurred late on Saturday evening in Zabjela, where Turkish nationals were involved in an altercation that resulted in one person being injured. The incident has raised significant concern among officials, prompting a response from the Movement for Europe Now (PES), which emphasized the need for maintaining peace and security in the country.

In a statement released today, PES expressed its commitment to ensuring that such incidents do not recur. They acknowledged the negative emotions that violence can evoke but condemned the actions of citizens who take the law into their own hands. “The individual responsibility for crimes rests with individuals, not ethnic communities,” the statement read, underscoring the importance of distinguishing between personal accountability and collective blame.

Prime Minister Dritan Abazović has also been active in addressing the situation. According to PES, he has initiated discussions regarding the potential revocation of visa-free travel for certain individuals, citing concerns that a number of people currently residing in Montenegro may pose a security threat. These individuals are reportedly under investigation by Turkish authorities for alleged involvement in criminal activities.

The PES statement further condemned the nationalist and xenophobic rhetoric that has emerged in response to the incident, urging citizens to refrain from such expressions that do not contribute to calming tensions. The organization reiterated Montenegro’s long-standing reputation as a haven of peace and safety for all its citizens and visitors, emphasizing that there is no place for xenophobia in the nation.

Montenegro and Turkey have maintained strong diplomatic and friendly relations for many years. PES highlighted the importance of continuing to strengthen these ties, stating that Turkish nationals are welcome in Montenegro. They called for a focus on de-escalating tensions and ensuring the safety of all individuals and their property in the country, without stigmatizing any social, national, or religious community.

This incident in Zabjela serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding the peaceful coexistence that Montenegro has historically offered. As officials continue to address the implications of the incident, the commitment to uphold the values of safety and inclusivity remains a priority for the government and its citizens alike.