Montenegro is a stable nation free from unresolved bilateral issues with its neighbors, dedicated to fostering good relationships and regional collaboration—qualities that position us as a trustworthy partner and prospective member of the European Union, stated Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić.

During his official visit to France today, at the invitation of President of the French National Assembly, Jaëlle Bron-Pive, he held a formal meeting with Pierre Anglade, President of the Committee for European Affairs of the French National Assembly, along with members of that parliamentary committee.

Mandić, as noted by his office, conveyed “deep gratitude” to France for its unwavering and robust support of Montenegro’s journey towards European integration, highlighting that, as one of the EU’s founding members, France plays a “particularly significant role in the unification process of Europe.”

He remarked that Montenegro is currently a leader in the integration efforts within the Western Balkans, attributing this status to a clear political direction and the consistent efforts of all institutions involved.

Mandić noted that the country has achieved considerable progress recently, particularly emphasizing the receipt of a positive Interim Benchmark Implementation Report (IBAR) and the closure of three negotiation chapters—concerning intellectual property rights, information society and media, and entrepreneurship and industrial policy.

“Political will and determination lead to tangible results. Even amidst challenges and certain obstacles faced in parliament, we managed to revitalize dialogue and find consensus on our European journey, which enjoys the backing of over 80 percent of Montenegrin citizens,” Mandić highlighted.

He stressed that Montenegro aims to close all negotiation chapters by the end of 2026 and to achieve full EU membership by 2028.

He particularly noted, as mentioned, the presence of “the young people in the team accompanying him,” indicating that they symbolize the new face of Montenegro—”the face of the future, bringing the necessary energy and enthusiasm for creating a modern, European state.”

“President Mandić concluded the meeting with the belief that this marks the beginning of a more intensive parliamentary cooperation between Montenegro and France, hoping that with France’s support, Montenegro will soon embark on a new chapter in European history,” the statement elaborated.

Pierre Anglade, the President of the Committee for European Affairs of the French Parliament, indicated that Montenegro is a friend to France and has made notable progress on its EU path.

“We will back your efforts to close all negotiation chapters by 2026, aiming for EU membership by 2028. I understand that 80 percent of the citizens in Montenegro support this EU endeavor, and that Montenegro plays a crucial role in stabilizing the Western Balkans,” Anglade emphasized.

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