Ibrahimović meets with Hungary's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Zsolt Bunford

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met today with Hungary’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Zsolt Bunford.

Ibrahimović expressed gratitude for Hungary’s support of Montenegro’s European path, especially during Hungary’s current presidency of the Council of EU.

We greatly appreciate that enlargement is a high priority for Hungary’s presidency. There is no successful EU story without the Western Balkans, and Montenegro is committed to implementing the necessary reforms to achieve full EU membership by 2028, stated Ibrahimović.

Reflecting on this year’s Montenegro Progress Report, Ibrahimović emphasised that Montenegro, as a steadfast partner of EU member states, continues to make consistent progress and is committed to European and Euro-Atlantic values. He expressed confidence that Hungary’s presidency of the Council of EU will facilitate the closure of four negotiation chapters by the end of this year.

Special Envoy Bunford reiterated Hungary's strong support for Montenegro’s rapid accession to the EU, emphasising that the European future of the Western Balkans is a mutual objective for both the region and the EU.

Hungary is a staunch advocate of enlargement. By the end of our presidency, Montenegro will be even closer to full membership, said Bunford, highlighting the importance of the Reform Agenda and creating conditions for citizens to experience the benefits of EU membership during the negotiation process.

The meeting also touched on bilateral cooperation. Both sides agreed that the friendly relations between Montenegro and Hungary are characterized by a dynamic, high-level political dialogue and are further reinforced through NATO.

Discussing the importance of good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, it was acknowledged that the integration of Western Balkan countries into the EU has no alternative. Strengthening regional security is thus a crucial prerequisite for progress in the integration process. Ibrahimović noted that Montenegro promotes and shares values that contribute to a safe environment for all citizens and will continue to support dialogue and an inclusive approach to all regional issues.