Montenegro Moves Forward with EU Integration: €26 Million from the Growth Plan Anticipated by Month-End, New Chapters to Close in 2025

Today in Podgorica, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić welcomed the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, who is on her inaugural official visit to the Western Balkans, beginning with Montenegro — a nation acknowledged as a frontrunner in the European integration journey.

During their discussion, High Representative Kallas conveyed her gratitude to Prime Minister Spajić for Montenegro’s complete alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policies. She also highlighted the nation’s unwavering support for United Nations resolutions aimed at maintaining Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

“Montenegro is a highly esteemed partner, which is why we are commencing our visit here. You have made incredible progress on your European path. The next phase is to maintain focus on reforms, and I assure you — the EU is with you every step of the way,” stated Kallas.

She revealed that Montenegro is expected to receive an initial payment of over €26 million from the EU Growth Plan by the end of April, alongside a support package valued at six million euros aimed at enhancing the Armed Forces of Montenegro.

Prime Minister Spajić underscored that the Government is diligently working to establish all the essential conditions necessary for the ongoing and dynamic fulfillment of demands from the EU agenda, and noted that Parliament will also have a significant role in preparing for the closing of new chapters in 2025.

“Last year marked our most successful period in terms of European integration. It has laid the groundwork for 2025 and 2026, when we aim to fulfill a significant portion of our obligations in the negotiation process. Montenegro is unwavering in its commitment — the EU is our strategic direction, and nothing will sway us from this course,” remarked Prime Minister Spajić.

During their meeting, they addressed the involvement of the Venice Commission in resolving issues related to the retirement of Constitutional Court judges. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of concluding this process with the support of the Venice Commission to create a legal framework that minimizes the potential for varying interpretations.

Concerning the agreements made between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of the UAE, it was noted that Montenegro’s economic advancement is beneficial. Prime Minister Spajić clarified that the entire process is transparent and requires parliamentary approval, ensuring alignment with all legal standards.

The Prime Minister pointed out that several laws enacted in previous periods provide a sound legal foundation for rigorous oversight to ensure the integrity of the projects. He concluded that these agreements also include guarantees from the UAE government.

“Montenegro’s economic development aligns with the interests of the European Union. It is vital that laws and obligations are adhered to and that the same rules are applied universally,” High Representative Kallas responded to media questions regarding these agreements.

In closing, Prime Minister Spajić highlighted that several EU member states have entered into similar agreements with the UAE, and that Montenegro is presently negotiating bilateral agreements with three EU member nations.