Johansson - Bečić, Šaranović: Impressive results achieved

Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić and Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović are paying an official visit to Brussels and the European Commission, where they held a series of meetings with high-ranking officials on the first day.

During the meeting with European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson, the dedicated work and visible achievements of the Government and the security sector in all areas, particularly in the fight against organised crime, and in accelerating European integration and energizing the European path, were strongly emphasised.

Highlighting positive trends in Montenegro, Commissioner Johansson stated: "I am impressed by your achievements, and I extend sincere congratulations on the significant steps you are taking. Everything you have accomplished is truly impressive, and I look forward to visiting Montenegro at the EU-Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs in October. Your accomplishments justify Montenegro hosting such an important event."

DPM Bečić highlighted the transformation of institutions and the advancement of European integration under the new Government's mandate. He underscored the shift from dysfunction and blockages to functional institutions and accelerated European integration. The focus is also on the vigorous crackdown on organised crime and corruption, evident through arrests, dismantling smuggling networks, seizing assets, and bringing fugitives to justice. This progress is attributed to collaborative efforts among law enforcement, prosecutorial authorities, and international partners like EUROPOL. Furthermore, he emphasised the commitment to meeting interim benchmarks, paving the way for accession negotiations closure.

The meeting with the Commissioner is just one in a series of confirmations that Montenegro's position on its European path has never been better.

Minister Šaranović stated that they are particularly proud of the fact that in this historic process for Montenegro, the Ministry of the Interior plays a very significant role and is recognised as a positive example in fulfilling the obligations of the EU agenda. He added that soon "the borders of Montenegro will be the borders of the European Union."

Šaranović highlighted the excellent cooperation with Frontex, as well as Montenegro's participation in activities and operations of EMPACT, pointing out the additional effort Montenegro is making regarding migrations.

Angelina Eichhorst, Director for Europe at EEAS, confirmed that this is a crucial period for Montenegro and the Western Balkans, saying: "It is very important that we work with a reliable partner, especially in the field of security and defence, and it is very important to me that we work and achieve results in the areas that the citizens of Montenegro want to see."

The working visit to Brussels of Deputy Prime Minister Alekse Bečić and Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović continues tomorrow and the day after with a series of meetings, including meetings with Vice Presidents of the European Commission, Věra Jourová and Margaritis Schinas.