The establishment of Croatia’s Commission for the Return of the “Jadran” has intensified bilateral tensions with Montenegro and has led to delays in closing Chapter 31 of the European Union accession negotiations. The Croatian Conservative Party (CKP) has expressed concerns that Croatia is leveraging this situation for its own interests.
The “Jadran” has long been a symbol of maritime tradition and heritage for Montenegro. According to the CKP, under succession rules regarding military property, the vessel rightfully belongs to Montenegro. These rules are outlined in Article 4 of Annex A of the 2001 Vienna Succession Agreement, which specifies the territorial location of property during the breakup of the former Yugoslavia.
This recent move by the Croatian government has compelled Montenegro to establish its own negotiation body for bilateral discussions. The CKP has indicated that if necessary, Montenegro may seek international arbitration or EU assistance to resolve the dispute.
The party emphasized the need to present Montenegro’s perspective in these negotiations, advocating for a focus on justice and dignity without escalating the conflict. They underscore the importance of adhering to national interests while navigating these complex discussions.
As both nations prepare for future talks, the outcome of this issue could have significant implications for their diplomatic relations and Montenegro’s path towards EU integration. The CKP’s official statements reflect a commitment to maintaining a peaceful dialogue while asserting Montenegro’s rights over the “Jadran.”
