The future of the region in the EU, highlighted importance of intensifying reforms

On the second day of the Munich Security Conference, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ervin Ibrahimović, participated in a series of panel discussions dedicated to current global and regional crises, strengthening transatlantic partnerships, Europe's and the EU's role in the world, as well as Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East.

A meeting of Western Balkan leaders was also held, focusing on the European perspective and the region’s further path towards EU membership. The keynote speakers were Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement, and Ambassador Wolfgang Ischinger, Chairman of the Munich Security Conference Foundation Council. In addition to Minister Ibrahimović, the discussion included representatives from the region: Vjosa Osmani, President of the Republic of Kosovo; Željka Cvijanović, Chairwoman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Denis Bećirović, member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania; Timčo Mucunski, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia; Tanja Miščević, Minister for European Integration of Serbia; and Peter Grk, Secretary-General of the Bled Strategic Forum.

The European Commission's strong support for the enlargement process was emphasized, and it was assessed that EU membership represents a key factor for the region’s stability and development, significantly contributing to long-term peace, economic growth, and resilience to geopolitical challenges.

Montenegro was recognized as the frontrunner in European integration within the region and the country that has made the most progress in accession negotiations. It was assessed that, with the effective implementation of reforms, Montenegro has a realistic chance of becoming the next EU member by 2028. In this context, the need for a credible and consistent EU enlargement policy was highlighted, providing candidate countries with clear guidelines and enabling gradual accession based on individual merit.

On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Ibrahimović met with Commissioner Marta Kos, emphasizing Montenegro’s full commitment to the European path and the necessity of accelerating the integration of the Western Balkans. Kos acknowledged Montenegro’s visible progress and underlined the importance of further intensifying reforms to achieve EU membership as soon as possible.

On the second day of the Munich conference, the Minister also met with the State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, Mohamed Al-Khulaifi. It was mutually assessed that there is an interest in strengthening political dialogue and enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the fields of economy, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy sources. Discussions also included intensifying contacts and cooperation between the foreign ministries of Montenegro and Qatar.

Additionally, the Minister held brief talks with his counterparts, the foreign ministers of Slovenia, Tanja Fajon; Croatia, Gordan Grlić Radman; and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković.

By participating in the Munich Security Conference, Minister Ibrahimović reaffirmed Montenegro’s commitment to European and Euro-Atlantic values, strengthening stability and cooperation in the Western Balkans, and proactively contributing to global security and safety.