Berset: We are impressed by Montenegro’s achievements in the past year in the field of rule of law and human rights

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić emphasized, during his meeting with Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset, the importance of cooperation with the organization in the context of receiving IBAR, as a sign of the country's significant progress in the field of rule of law.

Spajić highlighted that the Council of Europe has made a monumental contribution in this area and that it is crucial for Montenegro to continue excellent cooperation, especially in view of Montenegro’s upcoming Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, scheduled from November 2026 to May 2027.

We are seriously preparing for assuming the chairmanship, and we expect that by then we will have fully transformed and closed Chapters 23 and 24, which would confirm that we have reached the highest European standards in the areas of rule of law and protection of freedoms, said the Prime Minister.

Spajić also thanked Berset for the involvement of the Venice Commission in situations requiring expert support in creating a better and more precise legal framework.

The Secretary General of the Council of Europe praised Montenegro's commitment to European values and its progress in the European integration process.

We are all impressed by what Montenegro has achieved over the past year in the field of rule of law and respect for human rights, especially given the evident democratic backsliding in many other countries, Berset said after the meeting.

During the discussion, it was highlighted that Montenegro remains committed to addressing war crimes, towards which, in the words of Prime Minister Spajić, the country has "zero tolerance."

Secretary General Berset underlined the need to strengthen the Council of Europe as an international organization established to support the continent in challenging times.

Prime Minister Spajić concluded that hosting the Summit of the European Political Community in Montenegro would be a great honor for the country, especially in light of the upcoming jubilee celebration of the restoration of independence.

At the end of the meeting, it was emphasized that the Council of Europe will continue to provide expert assistance to help Montenegro successfully complete the integration process.