DPM Ivanović: EU Council confirms Montenegro’s progress

The Council of the European Union has adopted conclusions on enlargement, explicitly commending Montenegro’s progress in the EU integration process. These conclusions reaffirm that the Government of Montenegro’s plan for the country to become the next member state of the European Union is both realistic and achievable.

The Council's clear commendation once again confirms that our reform efforts are recognized and valued. We are resolutely continuing toward our goal—full membership in the EU, which represents the best framework for the long-term stability, prosperity, and progress of our country and all its citizens, stated Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović.

Key points from the Council’s conclusions:

Article 20: Positive results and reform commitments

The Council welcomes the highly positive results Montenegro has achieved in meeting its longstanding reform commitments. It also commends the Government’s ambition to accelerate the country's progress on its path to the European Union and encourages all political actors to support the ambitious plan for concluding the accession negotiations.

Article 21: Progress in negotiations and rule of law

The Council acknowledges Montenegro’s substantial progress in ongoing negotiations, including the opening of all 33 chapters following the screening process, of which 6 have been provisionally closed. Special recognition was given to Montenegro for meeting the interim benchmarks in the critical Chapters 23 and 24, which address the rule of law. This achievement marks a significant milestone and signals Montenegro’s entry into the final phase of negotiations. The Council encourages Montenegro to expedite the fulfillment of the closing benchmarks for these chapters to enable further progress.

The Council also commends the recent provisional closure of three chapters and expresses optimism that the remaining chapters will also be provisionally closed soon, once conditions are met. With the continuation of robust reform momentum, the Council reaffirms its readiness to begin preparations for drafting the Accession Treaty in due course.

Through this step, Montenegro further solidifies its position as a frontrunner in the enlargement process, demonstrating its commitment to meeting all obligations on its path to joining the European family of nations.

Link: https://x.com/fivanovicpg/status/1869017824422728090?t=C7_IgPsv-T1DFIOsrOz6NA&s=08