Ibrahimović, Craxi: Italy strongly supports Montenegro's European path

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met today in Podgorica with Chair of the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee of the Senate of Italy Stefania Craxi.

During their discussions, it was noted that Montenegro and Italy maintain traditionally strong political and economic relations, founded on a solid alliance within NATO. Both sides expressed confidence in the significant potential for enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including the economy, investment, tourism, transport, and defence.

Ibrahimović expressed gratitude for Italy’s continuous political and expert support on Montenegro’s path to EU membership. Reflecting on last year’s progress in European integration, he highlighted the ongoing and planned activities Montenegro is undertaking in alignment with the EU reform agenda.

Taking into account the expectations of our citizens, we have set an ambitious but realistic plan to maintain reform momentum and become a new EU member by 2028, stated Ibrahimović. He emphasized the importance of Italy assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of that year. Furthermore, he underlined that EU enlargement is crucial not only for the region but also for Europe as a whole, particularly in the context of current geopolitical challenges.

Ms. Craxi reaffirmed that the enlargement policy remains one of Italy’s key foreign policy priorities, commending Montenegro as a frontrunner in the European integration process in the Western Balkans.

Montenegro has an important role and a great responsibility in the region, stated Ms. Craxi, emphasizing that the Balkans, as a crossroads of cultures, can also be a sensitive area for potential destabilizing influences. Peace, stability, and prosperity in the Western Balkans are a shared interest, she concluded.

The officials exchanged views on current regional and global issues, underscoring the importance of maintaining EU unity and strengthening Europe’s security and global influence.