The entry of the Western Balkan countries into the European Union (EU) would contribute to strengthening the stability of Europe, said the Secretary General of the Central European Initiative (CEI) Franco Dal Mas at a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović.
As announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MVP), Ibrahimović today received Dal Masso, with whom he discussed the importance of EU enlargement for the stability of Europe, as well as the importance of the accession of the Western Balkan countries to the EU.
Dal Mas said that the EU integration of the region is a key goal of the CEI, along with strengthening interstate cooperation.
He, as announced, stressed the importance of unity in facing complex challenges in Europe and praised Montenegro's results in the reform process.
"The entry of the Western Balkans into the EU would contribute to the stability of Europe. We appreciate Montenegro's efforts on the path to the EU and we want it, as a leader of EU integration in the region, to become part of the Union by 2028," said Dal Mas.
Ibrahimović congratulated Dal Masso on taking office and emphasized that the choice of Montenegro for one of the first inaugural visits is a confirmation of the country's strong contribution to the work of the CEI, as well as successful results in the EU accession process.
He emphasized that the CEI, as the oldest regional initiative, represents an important factor in accelerating the process of accession to the Union, and that strengthening its capacities is compatible with strengthening Europe's global role.
"In the context of the strategic importance of EU membership, the minister pointed to the danger of hybrid threats and third-party influence," the statement said.
As Ibrahimović pointed out, Montenegro's entry into the EU would be a strong signal of commitment to common values and the European future of the region.
"Instead of our region being fertile ground for destabilizing factors, by Montenegro's accession to the EU we would send a message that we share the same values and that the Western Balkans is ready to be part of the European family," Ibrahimović said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it was mutually agreed that good neighborly relations and regional cooperation represent the foundation of stability and prosperity, as well as a key element of the region's European perspective.
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