SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina 

Italian President Sergio Mattarella said Tuesday Montenegro was ready to join NATO during an official visit to the country.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Cetinje with Montenegro President Filip Vujanovic in southwestern Montenegro, after the bilateral meetings, Mattarella said that because of its strategic location, Montenegro should join NATO.

He added that Italy and Montenegro shared "a great friendship". 

"This is a historic visit. First time in 32 years, an Italian president visited Montenegro," added Vujanovic.

The post of president in Italy is mostly a ceremonial one. However, he can wield considerable powers when the country faces political instability.