Ibrahimović, Kos: Continued strong support for Montenegro’s EU integration; Visit of Commissioner Kos reinforces European perspective

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met with European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, whose visit to Montenegro represents yet another confirmation of the European Commission’s continued and strong support for Montenegro’s accession process.

During the meeting, it was reaffirmed that Montenegro remains firmly committed to its European path, with a clear focus on fulfilling remaining obligations and delivering concrete results in key areas. The continued support of the European Commission, as well as Commissioner Kos’s personal engagement in the enlargement process, was welcomed.

Commissioner Kos commended Montenegro’s progress in the EU integration process, noting that, as the most advanced candidate country, Montenegro should maintain the current pace of activities and ensure continuity of reforms necessary to achieve the goal of full EU membership. In this context, the interlocutors agreed that further progress in key negotiation areas, as well as continued alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy – including the implementation of a visa regime aligned with EU regulations – represent concrete areas that will be thoroughly assessed by Member States.

The meeting also explored opportunities to expand cooperation in countering foreign interference and malicious threats, which pose challenges to democratic processes, with specific areas identified where tangible results can be achieved.

In the context of regional developments, Deputy Prime Minister Ibrahimović briefed on activities aimed at strengthening and enriching bilateral relations with neighbouring countries, including efforts to resolve outstanding issues. He reiterated Montenegro’s determination to continue investing in peace, stability, and trust in the Western Balkans, maintaining its role as a reliable partner and friend.

The interlocutors assessed that a series of high-level events to be hosted by Montenegro – such as the EU–Western Balkans Summit in June this year, as well as a number of ministerial meetings and the Berlin Process Leaders’ Summit – will provide an opportunity to promote European values and standards in a year marking the twentieth anniversary of the restoration of Montenegro’s independence.