EPA-EFE / Christian Bruna

Outgoing European Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelji highlighted that a significant moment in the negotiations with Montenegro occurred during the intergovernmental conference in June, where Podgorica received a favorable temporary measure report concerning Chapters 23 and 24 (Ibar).

– We reached a crucial moment in June at the Intergovernmental Conference with Montenegro. The EU acknowledged the progress made in the rule of law through temporary measures for Chapters 23 and 24. Simultaneously, the EU is prepared to close these essential chapters for Montenegro – stated Varhelji during the conference “The Future of Europe and Countries Aspiring to Join the EU” in Budapest.

Varhelji noted that ten years since Croatia’s accession in 2013, “This is the first occasion where they are being evaluated on the rule of law chapter,” marking a victory for Podgorica.

– In line with the revised enlargement methodology established in 2020, which outlines a framework for ensuring a fair and transparent accession process, this methodology now lays the groundwork for commencing the closure of negotiation chapters with Montenegro in the upcoming months, “Varhelji added.

He emphasized that enlargement will remain a top priority, “as the European project cannot be complete without our Balkan neighbors and friends from the East.”

– EU accession will and must be a merit-based process. It is evident that the progress of each candidate country is crucial, starting with reforms in fundamental areas. This principle is of utmost importance to our Member States. Hence, candidates and potential candidates must exhibit a full commitment to implementing reforms on their path to the EU – Varhelji stated.

The EU, as he mentioned, is prepared for enlargement and ready to admit new Member States in the coming years.

– Candidate countries have received substantial support and funding to facilitate their EU membership aspirations. Consequently, I believe the next commission will need to focus on expansion, which will ultimately pave the way for the next wave of enlargement – Varhelji asserted.

He further assessed that, considering the geopolitical and security landscape in Europe, enlargement has become essential.

– It is essential because there cannot be peace, prosperity, and security in Europe without enlargement. I believe our discussions will greatly influence the enlargement agenda and conclude that the question is no longer if we will expand, but rather when we will do so. I think that if we act quickly, we will accelerate this geopolitical investment to strengthen and consolidate the foundations of long-term peace, stability, security, and prosperity throughout our continent – Varhelji concluded.