CETINJE, Montenegro (AP) - The Latest on Montenegro and NATO membership (all times local):

Montenegro's prime minister has urged lawmakers in to support NATO membership, saying that it will present a guarantee for Montenegro's future security, economic progress and regional stability. He says that “this day will be marked among the brightest in our history.”

Pro-Russia opposition parties are boycotting the session and have held a demonstration instead. A banner read: “NATO murderers, your hands are bloody!”

Montenegrin lawmakers are set to ratify the Balkan country’s membership in NATO and make a historic turn toward the West despite protests from traditional ally Russia and pro-Russian opposition. The Montenegrin parliament will convene in the historic capital of Cetinje to ratify the accession treaty with the Western military alliance. Police have deployed in the town as opposition parties announced they will boycott the session and hold a demonstration instead. “What is happening now is the triumph by force and lies!”

Montenegro’s pro-NATO government has urged lawmakers to approve the entry protocol. Montenegrin government officials argue that joining NATO will bring stability and economic benefits after centuries of turmoil. The government says: “In the current geo-political environment, Montenegro must rationally look at all options and make a decision that will best protect its national, security and economic interests.”

Russia has been angered by NATO expansion in Montenegro, Moscow’s traditional zone of interest. Moscow has denied this, but it has actively supported the anti-NATO opposition and backed calls for a referendum on NATO ties.
The Parliament of Montenegro votes 46–0 to ratify Montenegro's membership of NATO, while opposition politicians boycott the vote and hold protests.