DPM Bečić hosts ceremonial reception for delegation from the Federal Republic of Germany

Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić hosted a ceremonial reception at the Šipčanik Wine Cellar for a delegation from the Federal Republic of Germany, led by Minister of the Interior of Saxony-Anhalt Tamara Zieschang. The delegation also included members of the regional parliament of Lower Saxony and representatives of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Deputy Prime Minister Bečić emphasized that the 44th Government of Montenegro has operated from the outset with a clear strategic orientation focused on three pillars: Montenegro as a factor of stability in the Western Balkans, a credible NATO member, and the next full member of the European Union, which remains the country’s primary foreign policy goal.

He highlighted that the Government enjoys the support of approximately two-thirds of the Montenegrin Parliament, ensuring the political stability necessary for the continuation of European integration efforts. Bečić expressed pride in the contributions made by the Ministry of Interior, particularly in receiving a positive IBAR in June 2024, which unblocked Montenegro’s accession process. This milestone was followed by the closure of three negotiation chapters, with several more expected to be closed by the end of 2025.

Additionally, an Action Plan for the closure of Chapters 23 and 24 has been adopted, defining concrete objectives, activities, responsible institutions, deadlines, and success indicators. Bečić reaffirmed Montenegro’s ambition to become the 28th EU member state by 2028, aligning all institutional resources with that objective.

The Deputy Prime Minister also underscored the importance of aligning with European recommendations regarding urgent reforms to the electoral legislation, particularly with respect to unifying local elections and reducing the frequency of election cycles. After eight rounds of local elections held during the current government’s mandate—covering nearly 60% of the electorate and including the two largest cities—Bečić noted that political energy should now be redirected toward completing the negotiation process.

Addressing the rule of law, Bečić highlighted the Government’s determined efforts in combating organized crime. He stated that Montenegro is undergoing a historic confrontation with tobacco and drug cartels, as well as other forms of organized crime. He praised the leadership of key institutions, describing them as professional, honest, and courageous, and noted that cooperation with international partners is delivering historic results. Individuals charged with serious criminal offenses are now in custody, on trial, on the run, or under active investigation—with no space left for impunity or protection by state structures. Bečić emphasized that vetting remains the cornerstone reform, essential for the full recovery of Montenegrin institutions.

Minister Tamara Zieschang reiterated Germany’s strong support for Montenegro’s anti-corruption efforts and ongoing vetting process in the security sector. She noted that the fight against corruption is critical to restoring public trust in institutions and enhancing Montenegro’s international standing. Minister Zieschang also welcomed Montenegro’s commitment to addressing environmental crime, citing similar challenges faced by Germany in the 1990s and emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about the threat this type of crime poses to modern societies.