Montenegro is poised to finalize between six and nine chapters by the year’s end, stated Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović. He noted that if the country maintains its current momentum, there are no barriers to EU membership by 2028.

In a discussion before the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Ivanović shared with the MINA agency that Montenegro received considerable praise.

“The discourse was notably positive. There was a substantial acknowledgment of Montenegro and strong backing for its European journey,” Ivanović remarked.

Regarding Croatian MEP Tomislav Sokol’s comments, he mentioned that Sokol’s views were anticipated and had been expressed previously.

“Sokol has certain interests in Montenegro’s situation, fostering connections particularly within the opposition, so his opinions are not surprising,” Ivanović stated.

When asked if closing nine chapters by year’s end is achievable, as suggested by chief negotiator Predrag Zenović, Ivanović replied that “it’s uncertain whether that will transpire.”

“We can only comment on our internal readiness to conclude specific chapters. It’s clear that the chief negotiator and the Minister of European Affairs made explicit remarks recently regarding our preparedness for the number of chapters,” Ivanović clarified.

He indicated that Montenegro is prepared to close between six and nine chapters, which are nearly complete on the state side.

“However, there’s a distinction between the technical aspects—where we can assess our readiness for closing chapters—and the political elements, where we require 27 votes to finalize a chapter,” Ivanović explained.

Addressing the EU’s communication to Montenegro’s authorities regarding the need to implement adopted media laws, Ivanović described it as motivation for the parliament to meet its obligations.

He believes this isolated instance won’t hinder the country’s path to the EU.

When questioned about the certainty of Montenegro’s membership by 2028, Ivanović answered affirmatively.

“Given the current situation in Montenegro, as well as the overall sentiment within the EU, Brussels, and among member states, I would assert that membership is quite likely. 2028 is just three years away; we need to monitor developments closely,” he elaborated.

He expressed optimism, stating if Montenegro continues its current efforts, he foresees no obstacles to EU membership by 2028.

When asked if Albania is now a competitor in this process, Ivanović acknowledged Albania’s increased activity in European integration.

“We welcome that. All nations in the region—and indeed all interested in EU membership—should aspire to join. I would refrain from framing it as competition, considering Albania needs to open chapters while we are in the phase of closing them,” he noted.

He pointed out that while Montenegro received the Interim Benchmark Implementation Report (IBAR), Albania did not.

According to Ivanović, IBAR represents a critical moment, a turning point after which chapters can be closed.

“Montenegro has traveled far; it remains a leader in the European integration process, but it’s vital that we maintain our momentum at the same intensity as in the past year and a half,” he added.

This, he explained, also hinges on the actions of the Government and Parliament.

“I anticipate that synergy will manifest in the forthcoming period, and hence, I don’t believe Montenegro will lose its leading status, especially given our supportive approach towards the progress of other candidate nations,” Ivanović stated.

When asked about the potential for Montenegro and Albania to enter the EU separately, Ivanović mentioned the previous discussions surrounding the merit principle, which Montenegro also supports.

“This doesn’t imply a collective or group approach; a more advanced country shouldn’t have to wait for one that has not reached that level, nor should a country at a different negotiation stage be discouraged from continuing its reform process,” he explained.

He anticipates Montenegro to be the next EU member.

On whether Montenegro is addressing Croatia’s blockade of Chapter 31, Ivanović noted that several meetings have taken place.

“We are working diligently on this and there are ongoing interactions between Montenegro and Croatia across various levels,” he added.

He mentioned that Montenegro is approaching this matter sincerely.

“Of course, we need to discern Croatia’s stance on this issue. I wouldn’t divulge specifics because it’s often more prudent to reach an agreement before announcing it, rather than exerting pressure on negotiating teams,” Ivanović remarked.

He expressed belief that “good news regarding this issue will be forthcoming.”

Discussing intra-government relations, Ivanović affirmed that both the Government and Parliament are functioning effectively.

“All necessities for our European progress are being passed with overwhelming majorities in parliament. There’s no standstill in this regard. As in any coalition, parties engage in discussions to find common ground and compromise on issues that don’t align with all coalition members,” Ivanović noted.

Regarding agreements with the United Arab Emirates, Ivanović confirmed these were discussed with coalition partners within the majority and the Europe Now Movement (PES).

“I assume other parties also held internal discussions on this. The outcome of the parliamentary vote reflects that,” he asserted.

Addressing public concerns over process transparency, Ivanović admitted, “The preparations for signing an interstate agreement could have been handled more effectively. Communication beforehand would have been beneficial. Yet, I believe no other interstate agreement has garnered as much attention and discussion, both in and outside parliament, as this one,” he insisted.

He emphasized, “I think we’ve never witnessed such a vigorous and open debate in Parliament regarding any interstate agreement.”

Speaking on PES’s performance in Nikšić’s local elections, Ivanović expressed that he had anticipated better results.

“Our results ensure we will be the second largest force in the future government. This will allow us to present tangible projects, solutions, and personnel to citizens over the next four years,” he concluded.

When asked about potential conflicts with the Movement for Podgorica, Ivanović reflected, “If we’ve learned anything in the past five years, it’s that anything is possible.”

“Regarding Podgorica’s current situation, I believe it’s not in anyone’s favor—not even the Movement for Podgorica—to again jeopardize government functionality as they did last year, potentially leading to an even worse result than previous elections,” Ivanović asserted.

He urged all parties to prioritize the interests of citizens over personal or party agendas.

News