Montenegro has made significant strides towards European Union (EU) membership, prompting Germany’s Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, to announce plans for the next steps in accession negotiations. At a press conference in Berlin, Merz emphasized that Montenegro’s EU membership aligns with Germany’s interests, particularly in combating illegal migration.
Merz stated, “The closer we are connected, the better we can act together in Europe,” highlighting the importance of collaboration between the two nations. According to Deutsche Welle, this message was received positively by political analysts in Montenegro, who view it as a crucial endorsement of the country’s EU aspirations.
Political consultant Alexander Music remarked that Europe is acutely aware of its critical geopolitical moment, necessitating immediate action. He pointed out the challenges posed by a divided America and an aggressive Russia, as well as internal players like Hungary, which complicate the landscape. Music noted, “Europe knows it cannot afford to take its time as it did 10 or 20 years ago. It is ready to expedite the accession of new member states that meet minimum criteria.”
He emphasized that if Europe does not respond decisively, other forces will step in, positioning Montenegro as a frontrunner in EU accession. Music also mentioned the ongoing competition for leadership influence between Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, suggesting that Merz’s proactive stance should be regarded in this context.
Ambassador Zeljko Perovic echoed the sentiment that Merz’s statement represents one of the most significant developments for Montenegro since its EU negotiations began. He described it as encouragement for decision-makers within the Montenegrin government, particularly for Prime Minister Milojko Spajic. Perovic cautioned, however, that the Chancellor’s remarks also serve as a warning for the Prime Minister to address elements within the ruling coalition that may impede Montenegro’s progress towards EU membership.
The ambassador affirmed that Montenegro’s EU journey hinges on reform implementation and the adoption of European standards. His extensive diplomatic experience in EU countries has led him to believe that merit-based accession has historically been a guiding principle, even if differing opinions exist today. Nonetheless, Perovic stressed that Montenegro should remain focused on its goals and not be swayed by external opinions.
While the German Chancellor’s remarks are viewed as a positive development, Music also warned that joining the EU will not resolve Montenegro’s internal political challenges. He highlighted issues such as an unfavorable economic structure, the rise of parallel societies, ideological pressures from abroad, and a loss of social cohesion as critical matters Montenegro must tackle independently.
Music cautioned that delaying these internal issues could exacerbate problems once Montenegro joins the EU, potentially undermining the benefits of membership.
As negotiations progress, it is essential to understand the significance of the Accession Agreement, which allows Montenegro to participate as an observer in the EU Council and European Parliament prior to full membership. This agreement is crafted with input from candidate representatives, EU member states, and institutions, and typically follows the closure of negotiations across all chapters.
The finalization of the Accession Agreement awaits the European Commission’s opinion on Montenegro’s membership request and the approval of the European Parliament. Following this, the EU Council must unanimously decide on Montenegro’s accession, with the agreement taking effect once ratified by the parliaments of all EU member states and Montenegro itself.
As Montenegro moves forward in its EU journey, the support from Germany signifies a crucial moment that could shape the future of the Western Balkans within the European framework.
