EU-Montenegro Intergovernmental Conference: Reform momentum paves the way to European integration

The Intergovernmental Conference sends a clear message of political will for Montenegro to become an EU member, as communicated from the meeting between Montenegro and the European Union delegation in Brussels.

The outstanding results achieved by the 44th Government and Parliament have revitalized the integration process, and the current geopolitical situation has presented a new opportunity to accelerate the accession process.

Therefore, during the conference, it was emphasised that now is the time to continue reforms to seize the right moment for the EU path.

Special attention was given to appointments in the judiciary, enabling the resumption of fulfilling benchmarks in Chapters 23 and 24 after several years. This marks significant progress toward meeting the interim benchmarks in these chapters, overcoming a prolonged stalemate.

The importance of maintaining a focus on strengthening the rule of law was underscored as a priority, along with preserving the political stability that facilitated the decision-making process after a prolonged period of anticipation.

It was noted that achieving 100% alignment with the EU's foreign and security policy is a robust signal of commitment to European values and principles.

The conclusion highlighted that substantial steps have been taken, but there is still much work ahead for Montenegro. The EU expressed its strong support, and the announced Growth Plan is expected to further reward positive reform measures.

After a hiatus of more than two years, the 15th conference between the EU and Montenegro was held, chaired by the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib. The presence of the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi, and representatives of EU countries indicates that positive signs of Montenegro's acceleration on the path of reforms and integration are closely monitored.