Montenegro is at a pivotal moment and must make a significant move towards European Union membership within this and the next year, as affirmed by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and European Council President Antonio Košta during their meeting at Villa Gorica.

Spajić underscored that the focus of institutional efforts is on advancing reforms to facilitate Montenegro’s status as the EU’s 28th member by 2028, a goal he believes is both realistic and achievable.

The government and parliamentary majority aspire to have Montenegro fully prepared for EU membership by late 2026 or early 2027, according to announcements from the Prime Minister’s Office.

“We are diligently working to meet all necessary conditions. It is crucial for the people of Montenegro that the commitment of all significant political figures to fully engage in the European integration process is reflected in their actions. Our ministries are effectively executing the technical requirements, and I am confident we will reach the essential political consensus. Simultaneously, we are bolstering diplomatic relations, which are of utmost importance,” said Spajić.

He further stated that Montenegro looks forward to the EU’s support, not only during the integration process but also in various other sectors, especially highlighting the Growth Plan’s role in showcasing the economic advantages of EU membership.

Košta reportedly expressed admiration for Montenegro’s advancements on its European journey.

“Your ambition, hard work, and unwavering focus on the goal of becoming an EU member state are evident. You are not only enacting reforms but are also aligning your policies with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, particularly through your support for a just resolution in Ukraine. It is essential to maintain this momentum—stay concentrated on your objectives and continue this remarkable pace,” Košta remarked.

During the discussions, it was agreed that maintaining strong neighborly relations should remain a priority, founded on respect for the core values of the European Union.

In this regard, Montenegro’s adherence to foreign and security policies was emphasized, reaffirming its position as a reliable and predictable partner, as noted in the statement.

The meeting included Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić, Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević, Head of the Mission of Montenegro to the EU Petar Marković, and EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johan Sattler.

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