DPM Ivanović meets with Mircea Geoană at the ASPEN Forum

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today with the former NATO Deputy Secretary-General and Founding President of the ASPEN Forum, Mircea Geoană, during the 13th ASPEN GMF Bucharest Forum.

At the meeting, Montenegro was highlighted as a success story in the European integration process. Ivanović noted that Montenegro anticipates closing four negotiation chapters by the end of this year and is on track to be ready for EU membership by 2026, aiming to become the EU's 28th member by 2028.

We want to be a role model for the region, emphasised Ivanović, adding that the synergy between the Montenegrin Government and Parliament, backed by two-thirds of the deputies, ensures the political stability essential for continued progress.

Ivanović also underscored Montenegro's full commitment to its NATO obligations, including allocating 2.02% of GDP for defence, as evidence of its dedication to the Alliance.

Geoană commended the achievements of the Montenegrin Government, stating that Montenegro serves as an example for the region regarding European integration.

The quality of your Government’s work is brilliant, Geoană remarked.

During their discussion, Ivanović extended his best wishes to Geoană in the upcoming Romanian presidential election, acknowledging his experience and expertise as valuable assets for the future of both Romania and the broader region.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on current regional developments, including security challenges on NATO’s eastern flank and the significance of Western Balkan stability for Europe’s security.

Ivanović is scheduled to participate tomorrow in a panel titled "Shaping the Balkans’ Future: EU Enlargement on the Horizon," where he will discuss the importance of regional stability and European integration.