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Thursday, January 15, 1998 Published at 19:41 GMT



World: Europe

Montenegro leader sworn in
image: [ A burned out car set alight by supporters of the outgoing president, Momir Bulatovic ]
A burned out car set alight by supporters of the outgoing president, Momir Bulatovic

The new president of Montenegro has been sworn in after a night of violence on the streets.

Milo Djukanovic used his inaugural address to call for more independence.

And he warned the Yugoslav President, Slobodan Milosevic, that equal rights for the republics of Montenegro and Serbia was vital for the future of Yugoslavia.

Mr Djukanovic was sworn in after supporters of his rival, Momir Bulatovic, refused to accept defeat and marched on the government building.


[ image: Outgoing President: Momir Bulatovic]
Outgoing President: Momir Bulatovic
Mr Bulatovic is an ally of Mr Milosevic, whom America blamed for the riots.

Mr Djukanovic said: "Without equal rights for both Serbia and Montenegro, there is no Yugoslavia."

He indicated that he would prefer that the republic stay in Yugoslavia, but in a challenge to Mr Milosevic, added that Yugoslavia would have to change.

He said: "Only the people of Montenegro, and no one else outside Montenegro, can decide on its status within Yugoslavia."

He said that Yugoslavia must abide by its international obligations, including those Mr Milosevic agreed to in the peace agreement for Bosnia.
 





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