Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić held a ceremonial reception at the Šipčanik Wine Cellar for a delegation from the Federal Republic of Germany, led by the Minister of the Interior of Saxony-Anhalt, Tamara Zieschang. The delegation also included members from the regional parliament of Lower Saxony and representatives of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Deputy Prime Minister Bečić highlighted that the 44th Government of Montenegro has consistently operated with a clear strategic focus on three key pillars: positioning Montenegro as a stabilizing force in the Western Balkans, being a credible NATO member, and striving to become the next full member of the European Union, which remains the nation’s primary foreign policy objective.

He noted that the Government is backed by about two-thirds of the Montenegrin Parliament, providing the political stability essential for ongoing European integration initiatives. Bečić expressed pride in the Ministry of Interior’s contributions, especially regarding the positive IBAR expected in June 2024, which would unlock Montenegro’s accession process. This achievement will be followed by the closure of three negotiation chapters, with several more anticipated by the end of 2025.

Moreover, an Action Plan for closing Chapters 23 and 24 has been established, outlining specific objectives, activities, responsible institutions, deadlines, and success indicators. Bečić reiterated Montenegro’s ambition to join the EU as its 28th member by 2028, while aligning all institutional resources toward this goal.

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the necessity of aligning with European recommendations on urgent electoral reforms, particularly to unify local elections and minimize the frequency of election cycles. Following eight rounds of local elections during this government’s tenure—covering nearly 60% of the electorate and featuring the two largest cities—Bečić remarked that political focus should now shift toward finalizing the negotiation process.

On the rule of law, Bečić pointed out the Government’s dedicated efforts in tackling organized crime. He indicated that Montenegro is currently in a historic battle against tobacco and drug cartels, among other organized crime forms. He commended the leadership of essential institutions for their professionalism, integrity, and bravery, and noted that cooperation with international partners is yielding historic outcomes. Those charged with serious criminal offenses are now in custody, on trial, fleeing, or under active investigation, thereby leaving no room for impunity or protection from state structures. Bečić stressed that vetting is fundamental, serving as an essential reform for the complete revival of Montenegrin institutions.

Minister Tamara Zieschang reaffirmed Germany’s strong support for Montenegro’s anti-corruption endeavors and the ongoing vetting process in the security sector. She emphasized that fighting corruption is vital for restoring public confidence in institutions and improving Montenegro’s position on the international stage. Minister Zieschang also commended Montenegro’s commitment to tackling environmental crime, reflecting on the similar challenges Germany experienced in the 1990s and stressing the need to raise awareness about the threats posed by such crimes to contemporary society.