UPDATE: Montenegro is set to make significant progress in its European Union accession today, as it prepares to close five negotiation chapters during a crucial intergovernmental conference in Brussels.
Key chapters to be finalized include: Chapter 3 – Right of Establishment and Freedom to Provide Services, Chapter 4 – Free Movement of Capital, Chapter 6 – Economic Governance, Chapter 11 – Agriculture and Rural Development, and Chapter 13 – Fisheries. This development comes as the nation aims to solidify its path toward EU membership.
The Montenegrin delegation is led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, accompanied by Deputy Prime Ministers Ervin Ibrahimović and Nik Đeljošaj, as well as several key ministers, including Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčevic, Finance Minister Novica Vukovic, and Minister of Agriculture Vladimir Joković.
As of now, Montenegro has opened all 33 chapters of the EU accession process and temporarily closed seven. The government aims to finalize all remaining chapters by the end of next year, marking a critical phase in its integration efforts.
Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor, recently highlighted Montenegro’s progress, stating, “We can now move to the next stage of negotiations with Montenegro, which has probably advanced the most among candidates.” He emphasized the importance of closer ties, particularly in tackling illegal migration, a pressing issue for both nations.
The outcome of today’s conference could position Montenegro to enter a pivotal year with 12 closed chapters, significantly enhancing its chances for EU membership.
Since receiving candidate status in December 2010 and commencing negotiations in June 2012, Montenegro’s journey toward EU integration has been closely monitored by international observers.
As developments unfold, all eyes will be on the outcomes of today’s conference and the implications for Montenegro’s future within the European Union. Stay tuned for updates as this story progresses.
