Varadkar commends Montenegro as front-runner, eyes EU membership next

"In relation to the European Union enlargement policy, Ireland advocates the regatta principle. Each country needs to be assessed in the context of achievements and delivered results. Montenegro is definitely a front-runner, and our ambition is for it to become the next member," stated Prime Minister of Ireland Leo Varadkar during his official visit to Montenegro.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić met with Varadkar at Villa Gorica and emphasised that the government is firmly committed to Montenegro's European perspective.

Through the adoption of the highest European standards, we are implementing reforms for European integration and enhancing the quality of life for our citizens, Spajić stated.

He briefed the Irish Prime Minister on the results achieved by the government in just two months and the plan to improve citizens' standards, already underway with the first phase of increasing minimum pensions, with full implementation expected within the specified deadlines.

Both leaders assessed the bilateral relations between Montenegro and Ireland as good, further strengthened by the Irish Prime Minister's first official visit to Montenegro. "Our meeting is a positive impetus for further cooperation. I believe we will continue to strengthen the relations between our countries, especially within the framework of the European Union," Varadkar emphasised.

They also identified significant potential for improving economic activities, emphasising the need to strengthen the contractual basis and work towards better connectivity, including establishing a direct air route between Ireland and Montenegro.

During the meeting, attended by the Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorčević, discussions also touched upon Ireland's expert support regarding the utilization of EU funds.