Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy, Aleksa Bečić, stated that Montenegro aspires to be a nation of law rather than fear.

He concluded the Southeast European Transatlantic Forum at the United States Congress in Washington with a speech titled “Montenegro at the Doorstep of the European Union.”

The event gathered notable figures in transatlantic relations, energy, innovation, and security, as announced by the Deputy Prime Minister’s office.

Bečić highlighted the historical alliance between Montenegro and the United States, tracing back to 1905 when President Theodore Roosevelt first recognized Montenegro. He described the current relations as “a partnership with both meaning and a promising future.”

Bečić informed forum attendees that Montenegro is at a crucial juncture on the 19th anniversary of its independence: “Our strategic objective is defined: Montenegro aims to become the 28th member of the European Union by 2028. We are the sole candidate that has opened all chapters, closed six, and fully aligned its foreign and security policies with the EU.”

He noted that the foundation of this journey is not merely the technical alignment of regulations but an unwavering commitment to combat organized crime and corruption. He specifically mentioned that “for the first time in Montenegro’s history, a comprehensive vetting process has been initiated” in the Police Directorate, involving over 3,000 officers undergoing security and asset examinations. Approximately 100 have been suspended in a short time frame, with numerous checks and procedures underway, focusing on integrity, lifestyle, and connections.

“Never again will the law be weaker than crime. For the first time, the laws apply even to those who previously interpreted them at their discretion,” emphasized Bečić.

He also reminded participants of “Montenegro’s contributions to NATO, defense expenditures, involvement in missions, and investments in two patrol ships in France, which will form the backbone of the new Montenegrin navy and help maintain stability in the Adriatic.”

“Montenegro seeks to be a nation of law, not of fear. A dependable partner, rather than an inconspicuous dot on the map. And our commitment to this goal endures. The fight against crime allows for no compromises, and the path to the European Union has no barriers,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister.

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