Ibrahimović: It is important to maintain the momentum of the enlargement policy and demonstrate that reform results bring concrete progress

New York, 21 September 2026 – Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović took part, on the margins of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, in a meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Western Balkan countries and the Friends of the Western Balkans group, chaired by Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani.

The meeting focused on maintaining the momentum of the enlargement policy and the European perspective of the region in a complex international environment. Ibrahimović thanked Italy for the initiative and stressed the importance of jointly demonstrating that reforms, merit-based progress and political commitment to Europe deliver concrete results.

“In Montenegro, we continue to work towards our goal of completing the accession process by 2028. Our progress, however, is important for the entire region, as it demonstrates that the reform process is meaningful and that the European perspective can be a tangible one,” Ibrahimović said.

He emphasised that the Western Balkans’ response to complex political circumstances should be based on stepping up reforms, strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law, fostering economic convergence and enhancing regional cohesion around European values.

“There must be no ambiguity when it comes to democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights, peaceful cooperation and the European choice,” Ibrahimović said.

Ibrahimović also announced the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Berlin Process, to be held in Montenegro on 1 October, stressing that it will provide an opportunity to discuss the European perspective of the region, regional cooperation and our shared responsibility to ensure that the Western Balkans remain firmly connected to the European Union.