Montenegro is steadily progressing and remains a significant candidate and vital partner of the European Union. The ongoing expansion of the European family is essential for maintaining its unity, security, and prosperity, as highlighted during the meeting between Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Spajić met with Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos in Brussels, where he is leading the Montenegrin delegation at the Intergovernmental Conference with the EU, during which our country will complete Chapter 5 – Public Procurement.

We are making significant strides towards full EU membership. After six months, our progress in the area of the rule of law has been recognized, confirming that we are at the forefront of the accession process and a key partner for the EU, stated Prime Minister Spajić.

According to him, the closure of Chapter 5 and the approval from all 27 EU member states serve as robust validation that the public procurement sector in Montenegro aligns with top European standards.

The Prime Minister emphasized that everything is advancing as per the agreed timelines between Montenegro and the European Commission.

We are on track to conclude the closing of chapters by the end of 2026. We are now finalizing Chapter 5, which is fundamental and represents one of the most challenging chapters, alongside chapters 23, 24, and 27. However, it holds great importance for us as it forms the foundation of the Montenegrin economy. Nearly one billion euros in public procurement contracts are dealt with annually through a tender process that is now transparent and free of corruption, said the Montenegrin Prime Minister.

Commissioner Kos expressed her strong support for Prime Minister Spajić’s vision to finalize negotiations by the end of 2026.

The chapter we are closing today is of great significance, and I extend my congratulations to the Prime Minister of a country that could very well be the next EU member, Ms. Kos underscored.

Prime Minister Spajić expressed his gratitude to Commissioner Kos and the European Commission for their trust and ongoing support.

Both parties concurred that EU enlargement is a collective priority and a guarantee of a secure, unified, and prosperous Europe.