Ibrahimović-Dal Mas: Montenegro leads in integration process, enlargement crucial for strengthening european stability

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro, Mr. Ervin Ibrahimović, received the Secretary General of the Central European Initiative (CEI), Franco Dal Mas, to discuss the significance of the European Union enlargement for European security and the importance of the Western Balkan states' accession to the EU.

Congratulating Dal Mas on his appointment, the Minister emphasized that the selection of Montenegro for one of his first official visits confirms our country's strong contribution to the CEI's work, as well as the successful results in the EU accession process. He stressed that the CEI, as the oldest regional initiative, represents an important factor in accelerating the EU accession process, and that "strengthening its capacities is compatible with enhancing Europe's global role."

In the context of the strategic importance of EU membership, the Minister pointed out the danger of hybrid threats and third-party influences, highlighting that Montenegro's entry into the EU would be a strong signal of commitment to common values and the European future of the region. "Instead of our region being fertile ground for destabilizing factors, Montenegro's accession to the EU would send a message that we share the same values and that the Western Balkans is ready to be part of the European family," Ibrahimović stated.

The CEI Secretary General Dal Mas confirmed that the EU integration of the region is a key objective of the initiative, along with strengthening intergovernmental cooperation. He emphasized the importance of unity in facing complex challenges in Europe and commended Montenegro's results in the reform process. "The Western Balkans' entry into the EU would contribute to European stability. We appreciate Montenegro's efforts on its path to the EU and wish it, as a leader in EU integration in the region, to become a member of the Union by 2028," Dal Mas said.

Both sides agreed that good neighborly relations and regional cooperation are the foundation of stability and prosperity, as well as a key element of the region's European perspective.