Montenegro - Independence, Balkans, Adriatic

Independence of Montenegro

Referendum: On May 21, 2006, Montenegro held a referendum where 55.5% voted for independence from Serbia.
Declaration: Montenegro declared independence on June 3, 2006.
Serbia Recognition: Serbian parliament recognized Montenegro's independence two days later.

Economic Developments Post-Independence

Economic Boom: Initial years saw an economic boom from 2006 to 2008, with growth rates over 6% annually.
Economic Contraction: Followed by a contraction in 2009 due to reduced European bank credit, real estate sales to Russians, and foreign investment.
Political Stability: Democratic Party of Socialists maintained dominance; leader Milo Đukanović stepped down in 2006, returned in 2008.
International Support: Government worked with the International Monetary Fund to stabilize economy.

EU and International Relations

EU Agreement: 2009 saw the signing of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the EU.
Visa Regulation: Lifting of visa requirements for Schengen travel for Montenegrins.
Kosovo Relations: Montenegro's recognition of Kosovo's independence strained relations with Serbia.
Language: In 2010, Montenegrin was declared the official language, separate from Serbian.

Military and NATO

NATO Involvement: Montenegro contributed troops to NATO operations in Afghanistan in 2010.
NATO Membership: Formally invited to join NATO in December 2015, becoming a member in June 2017.
Russia Relations: Montenegro's NATO accession was opposed by Russia, which led to tensions and alleged coup attempts involving Russian backing.

Political Landscape

Elections and Leadership: Đukanović's Democratic Party of Socialists won most votes but lacked majority; Đukanović resigned, succeeded by Duško Marković.
European Commission: Recognized Montenegro's progress towards EU membership by 2013.

Adriatic Sea

Geography: Arm of the Mediterranean Sea between Italy and the Balkans; connects to the Ionian Sea via the Strait of Otranto.
Coastal Features: Italian coast is straight, while Croatian coast is dotted with islands.
Depth and Marine Life: Varies with coastal geography; northern areas are cooler with less salinity affecting marine life.
Currents and Winds: Notable for Bora and Sirocco winds; currents influenced by wind patterns.

These notes summarize the key points about Montenegro's independence, economic developments, international relations, political landscape, military involvement, and geographical details of the Adriatic Sea. They provide a snapshot of the country's transition post-independence and its integration into European and international frameworks.