June 22, 2012: Pope Benedict XVI received in audience Filip Vujanovic, president
of Montenegro on Thursday morning in Vatican. The president subsequently went on to
meet with the Vatican Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone, who was accompanied by
Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for Relations with States, revealed a Vatican
Press office communique.
"The principal reason for the visit was to exchange
the instruments of ratification of the Basic Agreement between the Holy See and Montenegro,
which the cardinal secretary of State and the president of Montenegro duly did at
the end of their meeting.
"The Agreement was signed in 2011 and was the result
of the excellent relations between the Holy See and Montenegro, which have been established
ever since the country gained its independence. The Basic Agreement ratified recognises
the juridical status of the Catholic Church and her principal institutions in civil
society, her liberty and independence in apostolic activity and in regulating matters
that specifically concern the Church, as well as freedom of worship, and freedom of
action in the fields of culture, education, pastoral care and charity’, the communique
further stated.
"During the cordial discussions it was noted that the Agreement
represents a positive development in the consolidation of the rule of law and democratic
principles, upon which Montenegro wishes to base its future. Moreover, a fruitful
exchange of opinions took place on current international issues and the regional situation.
with particular appreciation being expressed for the way in which the Holy See is
following Montenegro's journey towards full European integration.’
The Holy
See and Montenegro stated their desire to keep the spirit of collaboration alive through
constructive dialogue on areas of mutual interest for the Church and State, the Press
Office said.