In a significant diplomatic move, the presidents of Serbia and Montenegro met to address the strained relationship between the two Balkan nations. Historically intertwined, the countries were part of a unified state until Montenegro's independence referendum in 2006. Further tension arose when Montenegro acknowledged Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence from Serbia.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Montenegro's recently elected President Jakov Milatovic held discussions in Belgrade, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing political ties to complement existing economic cooperation. This visit marked the first by a Montenegrin president in several years, underscoring the importance of the meeting. Both leaders indicated that appointing ambassadors to their respective capitals, a position left vacant since a 2020 diplomatic dispute, would be a priority.

President Milatovic described the meeting as a fresh start, stating, "It is our shared duty to genuinely improve relations and avoid the disruptions that have frequently occurred in the past. This visit signifies a new chapter in our relationship." He succeeded long-time leader Milo Djukanovic, who championed Montenegro's independence and NATO membership.

Following April's election, Montenegro, previously considered a frontrunner for EU membership, has experienced political gridlock. While Milatovic's pro-EU party secured the most votes in the June parliamentary elections, it fell short of forming a government independently.

Ethnic divisions persist in Montenegro, where approximately a third of the 620,000 population identify as Serbian, reflecting the complex historical ties between the two nations, united by a shared language and predominantly Orthodox Christian faith. President Vucic affirmed Serbia's respect for Montenegro's sovereignty, stating, "Serbia has no intention of compelling anyone to act against their will. We find common ground on certain matters, while differing on others, but our dialogue has been respectful and constructive, which should foster mutual trust."

The two countries' shared history dates back to the early 1990s when Montenegro remained united with Serbia after other former Yugoslav republics declared independence. The dissolution of Yugoslavia triggered a series of devastating ethnic conflicts, resulting in widespread casualties and displacement.