EU Member States' Ambassadors acknowledge Government's results, Intergovernmental Conference likely by end of January

Results achieved by the Government of Montenegro at the onset of its mandate are evident, and the possibility of holding the Intergovernmental Conference is anticipated by the end of January, as conveyed during a meeting between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and EU Member States' Ambassadors, organised by the EU Delegation in Podgorica.

Prime Minister Spajić presented the government's accomplishments and highlighted the broad societal consensus achieved at the beginning of the mandate for conducting the Population Census. He emphasised the government's efforts to avoid Montenegro's inclusion in the Moneyval’s grey list, citing the adoption of a fiscally responsible Budget for 2024 as one of the most significant achievements in the first two months.

Additionally, the Prime Minister underscored the exceptional collaboration with the Parliament, resulting in advancements in Chapters 23 and 24, long-awaited by Montenegro. This diligent effort positions the country for the imminent closure of negotiation chapters, meeting the expectations of its citizens.

Within the context of Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Ambassador Cathy Buggenhout briefly outlined the programme and priorities. She welcomed the government's results, considering them an asset for further integration progress.

EU Ambassador to Montenegro, Oana Cristina Popa, commended the successful recent visit of the Prime Minister to Brussels and encouraged the government to sustain positive reform momentum, particularly in key areas of the rule of law. She acknowledged Montenegro's alignment with the EU's common foreign and security policy.

Prime Minister Spajić expressed confidence in Montenegro delivering new results in the coming days, emphasising the government's commitment to strengthening the rule of law as a fundamental prerequisite for societal and economic development.

EU Member States' Ambassadors also welcomed the appointment of Montenegro's Chief Negotiator with the EU, viewing it as another positive step in advancing Montenegro's European agenda.