EU'S Dirk Lange: Montenegro makes significant progress in implementing legal reforms and establishing institutional framework

Podgorica, Montenegro (25 April 2015) – Activities and results achieved in the negotiation chapters “Judiciary and fundamental rights” and “Justice, freedom and security” will be presented next week to EU member states, Dirk Lange, Head of Unit for Montenegro in the European Commission’s Directorate General for Enlargement, underlined at the meeting with Montenegro's Minister of Justice Zoran Pažin in Podgorica earlier today.

When it comes to the negotiating chapters 23 and 24, Mr Lange stressed that Montenegro has made significant progress within the legislative reform process and establishment of the institutional framework, adding the activities in that regrad are being implemented according to the plan. In that regard, he stressed that the expert reports are going to point out the key areas in which the EU expects further improvements.

Justice Minister Pažin informed Mr Lange about the key judiciary laws which will be in focus in the coming period. Highlighting the amendments to the Law on the Criminal Proceeding and new Law on Management of Seized Assets Acquired through Criminal Activity as key tools in fighting organised crime and corruption, Mr Lange commended the establishment of the Special State Prosecutor's Office and Anti – Corruption Agency.

The two officials agreed that all relevant institutions in the country should make additional efforts towards strengthening a credible and sustainable growth balance.