“The previous year has been one of the most dynamic and productive in terms of Montenegro’s EU pursuits. We have accomplished tangible results that reaffirm our dedication to the reform agenda and our European integration efforts. It is now essential to maintain political dialogue and align all societal actors with this singular objective. Our focus is to fully commit to meeting the obligations set forth in the European agenda, setting aside identity and other issues that could lead to social rifts,” remarked Chief Negotiator Predrag Zenović during the XIV meeting of the Stabilization and Association Committee (SAC) between Montenegro and the European Union, which took place in Brussels in a hybrid format.

According to an announcement from the Ministry of European Affairs, the Montenegrin delegation presented the achievements made at the national level, reiterating its commitment to reforms integral to the European integration process.

Zenović emphasized Montenegro’s efforts over the past year to finalize key appointments and restore functionality in the judiciary, which has facilitated the acquisition of the IBAR and the fulfillment of pivotal benchmarks in chapters 23 and 24.

“This serves as a robust signal that Montenegro is on the right track toward EU membership. Our objective is clear – to sustain the positive momentum and expedite reform initiatives in the upcoming period,” Zenović stated.

He also noted that the new Reform and Growth Instrument for the Western Balkans could accelerate Montenegro’s economic integration with the EU, while membership in the Single European Payments Area (SEPA) will foster improved financial connectivity and advantages for citizens and the economy.

“Montenegro’s European perspective is not just a political ambition; it is an economic imperative. We will persist in fortifying our economic stability and competitiveness to ensure a better quality of life for our citizens,” Zenović affirmed.

The statement also highlighted that the European representatives, led by Valentina Superti, Director for the Western Balkans, and Barbara Jesus Gimeno, Head of Unit B4 for Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighborhood of the European Commission, congratulated Montenegro on its successes in European integration over the past year, notably recognized by the provisional closure of three negotiation chapters by the end of 2024.

It was emphasized that Montenegro remains under special scrutiny due to its active integration process, with expectations of maintaining the same momentum this year to fully capitalize on the existing progress toward the provisional closure of remaining chapters. Alongside recognizing accomplishments, discussions focused on areas necessitating further efforts to ensure ongoing reforms, particularly in maintaining positive neighborly relations and aligning visa policies with those of the EU.

“Montenegro can serve as a model and inspiration for the entire region, but while significant strides have been made, obligations still remain unfulfilled. Time must not be squandered, especially with the goal of closing all negotiation chapters by the end of 2026; thus, it is vital to uphold a broad political consensus and stability, as they are crucial for the country’s European journey,” Superti stated.

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