Written question asked by Catherine West (Labour) on Monday, 6 September 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 9 September 2021 (named day). It was answered by Wendy Morton (Conservative) on Thursday, 9 September 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Montenegro: Orthodox Church

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of recent tensions toward the Serbian Orthodox church in Montenegro.

Answer: Our Embassy in Podgorica closely monitored the events surrounding the inauguration of the Serbian Orthodox Metropolitan of Montenegro, and the Littoral in Cetinje, Montenegro. Alongside likeminded partners, we issued a statement on 5 September strongly condemning all forms of violence, and calling for all involved to de-escalate tensions and establish a democratic, inclusive. and constructive dialogue, while respecting religious freedoms, freedom of expression, and freedom to peaceful assembly, as well as the need for individuals to be held to account for their actions.

Secondary information