Screening of acquis chapters 23 and 24 in Brussels went well, EU’s Lange tells Montenegro’s DPM Marković

Podgorica, Montenegro (11 June 2012) – Screening for acquis chapters 23 and 24, a very important step in the EU integration process, was prepared and presented by Montenegro with great success, Dirk Lange, Head of Unit for Montenegro and Croatia at the European Commission’s DG Enlargement, told Duško Marković, Deputy Prime Minister and Justice and Human Rights Minister, at their meeting earlier today in Podgorica.

Mr Lange said that the next important step is the meeting of the General Affairs Council on 25 June, where the European Commission will explain before EU ministers its recommendation to open accession negotiations with Montenegro. He noted in this context that it is necessary to update the results on Montenegro’s progress from the Spring Report onwards, especially as regards the areas of justice and fight against organised crime and corruption as the most important ones in the opening phase of negotiations.

Mr Marković informed Mr Lange of the results in said areas, particularly noting the successful implementation of crime legislation as the most powerful tool to fight organised crime and corruption. He stated that the justice efficiency is significantly upgraded by the changes in the legal framework. Mr Marković also noted that a fruitful regional cooperation is a must for the success in dealing with these challenges.

The two officials also discussed constitutional amendments in Montenegro and agreed that they are very important for the reforms agenda. Mr Marković informed Mr Lange that the draft amendments have already been sent to the Venice Commission, a Council of Europe advisory body on constitutional matters.

The meeting concluded that Montenegro’s EU integration depends on firm institutions and continued results on the ground.