The Serbian government decided Wednesday to open a consulate-general in Montenegro, with a seat in Herzeg Novi, it was published in the latest issue of the Official Gazette.

In addition to Herzeg Novi, the consulate will have jurisdiction over the municipalities of Budva, Tivat and Kotor.

In May the Serbian government officially asked Montenegro's approval to open three consulates, but was only granted one.

Montenegrin Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic has said on several occasions that there is no need for three Serbian consulates in Montenegro, since the trip from any part of the small state to the nearest diplomatic office of Serbia would not take more than a few hours.

The opening of the consulate was also announced by Serbian President Boris Tadic, during his visit to Montenegro in July.