Montenegro and Albania are at the forefront of the European Union accession process and can jointly expedite the European integration of the Western Balkans by exchanging experiences, aligning reform initiatives, and offering mutual support in critical negotiation sectors.

This evaluation was made during a meeting involving Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević and Albanian Minister and Chief Negotiator Majlinda Duka in Tirana.

According to the Ministry of European Affairs, the conversation revolved around enhancing bilateral collaboration within the context of the European integration journey, with particular emphasis on reform implementation, negotiation progress, and the advantages of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

“Montenegro and Albania have a shared strategic objective – complete membership in the European Union. This visit reaffirms the robust partnership between our nations and our dedication to the region’s European future. The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans clearly indicates that the European Union acknowledges and rewards reform efforts, which motivates us to hasten the reform process and communicate its significance to our citizens,” stated Gorčević.

Duka, according to the statement, underscored that regional collaboration is essential for enhancing the European perspective of the Western Balkans and emphasized the value of Montenegro’s experience in closing negotiation chapters, which can greatly benefit Albania as it navigates its own negotiation clusters.

“Albania and Montenegro exemplify how neighboring cooperation can accelerate progress in the negotiation process. Sharing experiences, particularly in the realms of rule of law, economic reforms, and public administration, can enhance the effectiveness of implementing necessary reforms. We are optimistic that with resolute reforms and European support, we will fulfill the criteria for further opening negotiation clusters, and Montenegro will proceed to close its chapters,” Duka remarked.

The ministers also addressed reforms essential for progress in the negotiation process, focusing on the rule of law, combating corruption and organized crime. They specifically noted the need for stronger institutional cooperation to tackle hybrid threats and align with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, as stated in the report.

During her visit to Albania, Gorčević is scheduled to present a lecture for students at the College of Europe in Tirana, discussing “Accelerated Enlargement Policy in the Western Balkans: The Case of Montenegro”.

News