Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović made an official visit to the Elcano Royal Institute in Madrid, where he was greeted by the Institute’s Director, Charles Powell. After the ceremonial signing of the Book of Honour, Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović delivered a keynote address and participated in a discussion with the Institute’s analysts.

In his address, Ivanović conveyed his gratitude for the chance to outline Montenegro’s foreign policy priorities and offer an in-depth overview of the country’s EU integration journey. He stressed that Montenegro’s primary objectives include achieving full membership in the European Union, enhancing good neighbourly relations, and fostering deeper cooperation with both regional partners and EU member states.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović detailed the advancements made in the accession negotiations, emphasizing that EU enlargement is critical not only politically but also strategically for regional security. He highlighted the progress achieved over the past year, particularly in judicial reform, institutional transparency, and independence. He pointed out Montenegro’s significant milestone of receiving IBAR for Chapters 23 and 24 in June last year, followed by the closure of Chapter 5 – Public Procurement – in June of this year.

He reaffirmed Montenegro’s aim to close all remaining negotiating chapters by 2026 and achieve full EU membership by 2028. While recognizing the challenges that lie ahead, he expressed optimism that this goal is attainable. EU membership, he asserted, will yield considerable economic, institutional, and developmental advantages, while also encouraging a broader European mindset across the Western Balkans.

Ivanović highlighted that Montenegro is leading not only in the accession process but also in fulfilling reforms, with 88% of the Reforms Agenda already accomplished. He reiterated Montenegro’s dedication to a merit-based approach and insisted that, once a member, Montenegro will be a staunch advocate for future enlargement. Additionally, he mentioned that enlargement enhances the European Union’s credibility, provided that both candidate countries and the EU adhere to their respective obligations.

In response to inquiries from the Institute’s experts, Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović emphasized the consistently strong public support for EU membership and reiterated Montenegro’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. He pointed to concrete benefits already being experienced by citizens, such as visa liberalization, accession to the SEPA payment system, and investments in social infrastructure.

During the dialogue, Ivanović stressed Montenegro’s active and credible role as a NATO member and the necessity of ongoing reforms and further engagement on the country’s European path.

The exchange occurred in a friendly and constructive atmosphere, emphasizing mutual interest in further enhancing cooperation, knowledge sharing, and bilateral relations between Montenegro and Spain.

The Elcano Royal Institute is Spain’s premier think tank for international affairs, with its Board of Trustees chaired by King Felipe VI.