During his meeting with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić underscored the significance of collaboration with the organization, particularly in the context of receiving IBAR, which reflects the country’s notable advancements in the rule of law.

Spajić remarked on the substantial contribution made by the Council of Europe in this domain, emphasizing the importance of Montenegro maintaining strong cooperation, especially with Montenegro set to take on the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe from November 2026 to May 2027.

We are diligently preparing for our chairmanship, and we anticipate that by that time, we will have fully reformed and closed Chapters 23 and 24, validating that we have attained the highest European standards in terms of rule of law and the safeguarding of freedoms, stated the Prime Minister.

Spajić also expressed his gratitude to Berset for the support provided by the Venice Commission in circumstances that necessitate expert assistance in developing a more effective and precise legal framework.

The Secretary General of the Council of Europe commended Montenegro’s dedication to European values and its progress in the European integration journey.

We are all impressed by Montenegro’s accomplishments over the past year in the realms of rule of law and human rights, particularly in light of the notable democratic decline occurring in numerous other nations, Berset remarked following the meeting.

During the dialogue, it was stressed that Montenegro remains resolute in its commitment to addressing war crimes, with Prime Minister Spajić remarking that the country holds a “zero tolerance” stance on this issue.

Secretary General Berset emphasized the necessity to reinforce the Council of Europe as an international entity designed to assist the continent during challenging times.

Prime Minister Spajić concluded that hosting the Summit of the European Political Community in Montenegro would be a tremendous honor for the nation, especially in light of the upcoming jubilee commemorating the restoration of independence.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was affirmed that the Council of Europe will continue to extend expert support to facilitate Montenegro’s successful completion of the integration process.