The partnership with the European Union is now more crucial than ever, especially in light of the current geopolitical challenges, emphasized Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović during his lecture at the esteemed University of Oxford.

He expressed that the enlargement of the EU is not solely an economic matter but is also vital for the overall stability of Europe.

Milatović’s office informed that during the lecture, he engaged in discussions about Montenegro’s European aspirations with professors and students.

At this event, he stated that the future of both Montenegro and the Western Balkans rests in “an integrated Europe, grounded in shared values and interests.” He underscored that Montenegro’s EU membership is more than a mere procedural transition; it presents an opportunity “to enhance the quality of life for all citizens” by reinforcing the rule of law, establishing effective public administration, achieving economic advancement, promoting equal opportunities, and adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.

“Upon assuming the presidency, I set an ambitious yet attainable target: for Montenegro to join the European Union as its 28th member by 2028. If you have conviction in your mission and work diligently, success will follow,” stated Milatović.

He highlighted “Montenegro’s strengths and its dedication to European values,” noting that the country is completely aligned with the EU’s foreign policy, uses the euro, and is “actively progressing with reforms” pertaining to the rule of law.

The President emphasized that Montenegro is in the concluding stages of negotiations, with plans to finalize six chapters by 2025, reiterating that sustainable progress relies on collaborative efforts between the EU and candidate countries in reforming and bolstering democracy and institutions.

He recalled that the European prospects for the Western Balkans were reaffirmed at the Thessaloniki Summit in 2003, yet two decades later, only one nation from this region has joined the EU.

“That would signal to the entire region that the promise made in Thessaloniki remains valid and that the European future of the Western Balkans is not merely theoretical, but practical and attainable. It would serve as a beacon of hope for the entire region,” Milatović asserted.

He conveyed his confidence that Montenegro can set an example for neighboring countries and that ongoing reforms in critical areas will prompt the EU to acknowledge and reward its advancements.

“I am convinced that we are at a pivotal juncture, and through collaboration, we can foster a successful scenario—where the candidate implements necessary reforms, and the EU acknowledges its preparedness and opens the door to membership,” concluded Milatović.

According to the President’s Office, during his visit to Oxford, he engaged with leading scholars, students, and members of the political and academic circles regarding the challenges and opportunities presented by the EU enlargement process, emphasizing that Montenegro’s European future transcends political aspirations—”it represents a generational opportunity for stability, advancement, and progress for the entire nation.”

“President Jakov Milatović has been honored with the prestigious British Chevening Award, which recognizes his contributions to politics, as he became the President of Montenegro just a decade after graduating from Oxford University,” the statement concludes.

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