Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica and Minister Gorčević meet with EU Commissioner Michael McGrath

Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Judiciary and Anti-Corruption Momo Koprivica and Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević met with the EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath.

Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica and Minister Gorčević emphasised full commitment to implementing reforms within the negotiation process, with particular focus on the rule of law and the implementation of measures to strengthen state capacities in the fight against corruption and organised crime.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the results achieved so far in fulfilling obligations under Chapters 23 and 24, assessing that significant progress has been made, while noting that additional work lies ahead to ensure full implementation of reforms, which remains a priority of the Government of Montenegro.

Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica and Minister Gorčević expressed particular appreciation for the support of the EU Delegation and EU institutions in the credible process of destroying seized smuggled tobacco, which is relevant to performance under Chapter 24. They also informed Commissioner McGrath about the adoption of a modern Law on Free Zones, in line with the Anti-Corruption Strategy, as well as the process of establishing the Draft Law on the Government, as an important instrument for transparency, accountability and integrity of the executive branch, and about further measures aimed at accelerating the fulfilment of objectives set out in strategic documents.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening the overall systemic independence of the judiciary, relating to the final benchmarks under Chapter 23, which the Government will submit to Parliament for further procedure.

At the conclusion of the highly constructive meeting, it was expressed that during 2026 reform processes and planned activities in the area of the rule of law are expected to be successfully completed, based on a clearly defined roadmap.