Roth: Disturbing some Montenegrin politicians' close ties with Vucinqiqi é Serbian Orthodox Church channel

Michael Roth, chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Policy Committee and Germany's former Minister for Europe in an interview for the Montenegrin newspaper “Pobjeda”, has said he is concerned about the close ties of some Montenegrin politicians with Serbia's President Aleksandar Vuciq. According to Roth Vuciq, he has testified that he is an unfaithful partner for the region. Such alliances, according to him, undermine Montenegro's European aspirations.

The “is disturbing when Montenegrin politicians are closely linked to a leader who has proven to be an unreliable partner for the EU and the region. Such alliances could undermine Montenegro's European aspirations. The country's leaders must prioritize their commitment to EU democratic values and principles to stay on track. The country now has a real chance to overcome divisions -- be they ethnic, religious or political -- in a joint effort to join the European Union -- this chance is unique and sensitive to time and should not be undermined” has the MP stressed.

Speaking of the role of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro and the findings that it is under the direct influence of Vuciq and as an executioner of Russian influence Roth says it is concerned about it.

I fully understand and respect that many citizens of Montenegro find their spiritual home in the Serbian Orthodox Church; this is a matter of religious freedom, a fundamental human right. However, I am deeply concerned about the political influence of the Serbian Orthodox Church, especially its involvement in Montenegro's educational system and its influence on young people. In that sense, the Church's role in Montenegro is disturbing. I agree with the European Parliament's assessment that the Serbian Orthodox Church acts as a channel of Russian influence and that it poses a threat to Montenegro's European integration”.