Your efforts are yielding results not only in reforms but also in policy alignment, fostering sustainable peace in Ukraine. Just yesterday, the European Parliament overwhelmingly acknowledged your progress. It’s now essential to sustain this approach, remain focused on objectives, and not to stall development, stated European Council President Antonio Košta during his inaugural official visit to Montenegro at the invitation of Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović.

In a press conference alongside Milatović, Košta emphasized that while the aim of joining the EU as its 28th member by 2028 is an appealing slogan, achieving it sooner would be preferable.

When queried by journalists regarding the compliance of agreements with the United Arab Emirates with European legislation, Košta noted that European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos had sent a letter outlining the EU’s stance, insisting on adherence to European laws concerning public procurement and environmental protection.

“Maintaining cordial relations with neighboring countries, particularly those already in the EU, is crucial,” stated Košta.

Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović remarked that Košta’s visit serves as a significant motivator not just for Montenegro but for the entire region’s journey towards EU membership. He highlighted that the visits from Košta and Kaja Kalas coincide with an important summit in Tirana.

“This meeting continues the ongoing dialogue we are engaged in. Montenegro is proud of its leadership role in EU integration. Our objective is to join as the next member by 2028,” Milatović stressed.

The President noted that he and Košta concurred that Montenegro could represent the “light at the end of the tunnel,” asserting that the enlargement process is very much alive.

“We anticipate that during the next Intergovernmental Conference, hopefully occurring in June under the Polish presidency, we will close numerous chapters. The EU continues to stand as a symbol of peace, stability, and prosperity, and we aspire to join that community. Yet, these values cannot be taken for granted, which is why Montenegro is aligning its policies with those of the EU before accession,” Milatović highlighted.

He added that since the onset of the war in Ukraine, Montenegro has shown unequivocal political support, adhering to the EU’s position that lasting peace is necessary.

Milatović expressed his gratitude to the EU and all its members for their support.

Košta mentioned he looks forward to continuing their collaboration at a meeting with other Western Balkan leaders focused on enlargement.

Regarding the extradition of Svetozar Marović, Milatović confirmed that his stance is well-established, emphasizing that despite seven initiatives from Montenegro, the action has yet to materialize.

When journalists inquired about how the new German government’s reluctance towards enlargement might impact Montenegro’s accession to the alliance, Košta responded that EU enlargement to include the Western Balkans, Moldova, Ukraine, and potentially Georgia is a priority for the EU.

“Germany remains a pivotal supporter of EU enlargement in the Western Balkans, and this will not affect your pathway to EU membership,” he reassured.

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