Ivanović, Brunner: Montenegro has the full support of the European Commission for progress towards EU membership

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today with the European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner. The focus of the discussion was Montenegro’s progress in the process of European integration and the further course of accession negotiations with the European Union.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović underlined Montenegro’s strong commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the European agenda, stressing that the Government’s plan is to close the negotiating chapters by the end of 2026. He expressed the expectation that all EU Member States would recognize Montenegro’s efforts and results, and support the country’s European path and the clear commitment of its citizens, who overwhelmingly support membership in the European Union.

In this context, potential challenges that could affect the dynamics of closing the negotiating chapters were also discussed, as well as the broader political and social significance of European integration. The two officials agreed that any delay or uncertainty in the enlargement process could have an impact on public sentiment, particularly given the strong and long-standing support of Montenegro’s citizens for EU membership.

Commissioner Brunner emphasized that European institutions clearly recognize the progress Montenegro has made in the accession process, and confirmed that Montenegro has the full support of the European Commission in its further progress towards EU membership and the closing of negotiating chapters. He encouraged the continuation of reforms and the maintenance of an ambitious negotiation pace, adding that these reforms represent the best investment in Montenegro’s future.

Special emphasis was placed on the rule of law as the foundation of Montenegro’s European future. The Deputy Prime Minister informed Commissioner Brunner about reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary and the autonomy of the State Prosecutor’s Office.

The two officials also exchanged views on global political and security developments, with particular reference to their impact on the EU enlargement policy and the stability of the Western Balkans region. The importance of strong cooperation between Montenegro and EU institutions in responding to contemporary challenges was highlighted.

The meeting also addressed cooperation in the field of internal affairs and migration, including further harmonisation of Montenegro’s visa policy with the European Union, reform of the visa information system, and strengthening institutional capacities in migration management, in line with European standards.

The interlocutors confirmed their mutual commitment to continuing intensive dialogue and partnership cooperation in the coming period, with the aim of achieving the shared goal – Montenegro’s full membership in the European Union.