The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović held a meeting today in Podgorica with Marjan Šarec, Member of the European Parliament and the European Parliament’s Rapporteur for Montenegro.

Minister Ibrahimović conveyed his pleasure regarding Šarec’s visit to Montenegro, highlighting the significance of ongoing dialogue with EU institutions.

He emphasized Montenegro’s achievements on its European journey, particularly noting the closure of three negotiation chapters. He remarked that the previous year was among the most successful in fulfilling the country’s central foreign policy objective—EU membership. With this progress, he urged all societal participants to remain dedicated to European integration.

We cannot afford to deviate from this course. We have never been closer to joining the Union—this is what our citizens anticipate. I strongly believe that, through collaborative efforts and the backing of our European allies, we will navigate all challenges, complete our obligations, and become part of the EU community by 2028, asserted Ibrahimović.

Šarec reiterated that EU institutions are fully committed to supporting Montenegro’s reform agenda. He recognized the country’s substantial advancements and stressed the necessity of maintaining the momentum of reforms and the pace of negotiations. He pointed out that “EU enlargement is currently a priority, with nations advancing based on their progress and individual merits.” In this context, he emphasized the importance of political leaders collaborating to find solutions that will not obstruct Montenegro’s European trajectory.

The discussion also covered the significance of fostering good neighbourly relations in the framework of European integration. Both officials concurred that EU membership represents the best assurance of stability and enduring prosperity for the Western Balkans.