Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević asserted that the accession of nations to the European Union (EU) should be merit-based, emphasizing that bilateralizing the process is unhelpful.

As highlighted by the Ministry of European Affairs, Gorčević made these remarks at the GLOBSEC forum in Prague, which hosts influential officials, experts, and leaders from across Europe and beyond.

During her address, Gorčević outlined Montenegro’s stance on European integration, calling for institutional reforms and enhanced economic collaboration.

In the panel discussion titled “Simplify, Protect, Strengthen: The EU’s Way Forward,” Gorčević underscored the urgency of modernizing EU decision-making, bolstering democratic resilience, and identified enlargement as a crucial aspect of security on the continent.

When asked about the next prospective EU member, Gorčević confidently stated that it is Montenegro, citing its adherence to criteria and advancements in the negotiation process.

Discussing the differing perspectives and disagreements among member states regarding candidates’ progress, Gorčević reiterated that accession should be founded on merit, pointing out that bilateralization does not benefit anyone.

“While the non-paper proposals from Slovenia and Germany might serve as a constructive avenue for shaping the enlargement process, Montenegro seeks unanimous support from all 27 member states in recognizing its accomplishments,” Gorčević remarked.

On the second day of the forum, the Ministry announced that Gorčević participated in a session titled “Beyond Borders: Advancing European Economic Integration of the Balkans,” which focused on practical measures to enhance the economic aspects of the accession process. This includes aligning with EU single market regulations, liberalizing capital flows, combating money laundering, and improving the regional investment climate.

Gorčević emphasized that regional cooperation and improved interconnectedness are essential to unlocking the full potential of the Western Balkans.

She noted that initiatives like the Growth Plan for the region present a unique opportunity to expedite economic integration with the EU, enhance infrastructure, and attract sustainable investments that benefit citizens directly.

“Collaboration among regional countries should not be an exception but rather the norm—only through a coordinated approach can we foster a competitive, stable, and European future for our entire region,” Gorčević stated.

According to reports, Gorčević engaged in multiple bilateral meetings at the forum, including discussions with the Foreign Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, Serbia’s Nemanja Starović, Bulgaria’s Georgi Georgiev, and Romania’s State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Ana Cristina Tinka.

It was indicated that during her discussions with Bulgarian and Romanian officials, Gorčević received reassurance that Montenegro can anticipate support from these nations in the final stages of membership negotiations.

The Ministry reported that Gorčević and Konaković discussed critical matters concerning the accession process, regional cooperation, and the collective European future for the region’s countries.

“By participating in the GLOBSEC forum, Minister Gorčević reaffirmed Montenegro’s strong commitment to its European aspirations and its proactive role in fostering regional and European cooperation,” the statement concluded.

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