Asked by the press when would Slovenia recognise Montenegro's independence, Rupel said "probably soon, but I think this will be in line with the European Union's position". He added the Union was preparing a text on Montenegro's status in which all member states would take the same position.
"We, the European Union, think that presently it is necessary to once again consider Serbia's European prospect. Serbia could now find itself in difficulty, which is why it requires special attention," said Rupel.
He said that if the results of Sunday's referendum confirmed that the majority had opted for independence, he wished Montenegro to "act as a responsible European state". He also said Montenegro would have to wait for accession to the EU on the other states in the region and that the EU would encourage and help its dialogue with Serbia.