"I welcome the decision of the Montenegrin Assembly to declare independence and congratulate all Montenegrins on the re-establishment of their own state. The referendum at which the future status of Montenegro was decided was implemented democratically, without any major incidents, and its outcome leaves no doubt as to what the convincing majority of Montenegrins want," Mesic said.
By declaring its independence Montenegro is not severing relations with any country, it is laying new, healthy and lasting foundations for future relations with all its neighbours in the interest of peace, stability and prosperity in the entire region, Mesic said.
"The Republic of Croatia is ready to develop normal, good neighbourly relations with Montenegro and establish cooperation in all areas. This is why I will support a proposal by the Croatian Government to recognise Montenegro as soon as I receive it".
"With the exception of a short period of wars during which the former Yugoslavia fell apart, there were never any war conflicts between Croatia and Montenegro. Areas where we can cooperate are far more numerous than outstanding issues," Mesic said, calling on the Montenegrin leadership to open a new chapter in bilateral relations.