Chief of the delegation of the European Union Mr. Leopold Maurer visits Diocese of Budimlje-Niksic

The chief of the EU delegation in Montenegro His Excellency ambassador Leopold Maurer accompanied by the spokesman of the Delegation Mr. Dragan Mugosa on January 19, 2012 visited the administrative seat of the Diocese of Budimlje-Niksic in Niksic.

In an cordial and open talk with Bishop Joanikije of Budimlje-Niksic ambassador Maurer exchanged opinions regarding mutual themes important for life and functioning of the Diocese of Budimlje-Niksic, and also about the issues regarding the status and the condition in which was today the Orthodox Church in Monetenegro.

Bishop Joanikije, welcoming this distinguished guest, informed him about the history of the Diocese, its position, role and the place, which had and which has in the Church and today's Montenegrin society. Concerning that, as a highly important, the Bishop pointed out the interest of the Church to improve the overall life of the population, and to preserve and protect the environment.

Ambassador Leopold Maurer Joanikiju Bishop thanked for their hospitality, noting that he shared the same interests over the rule of law in Montenegro, noting that laws must apply. The membership in the European Union is based on free will, without coercion, and since the process of joining the community, is inclusive, the Church  must be included in the process as the significant factor in the contemporary Montenegrin society.

Source: Diocese of Budimlje-Niksic