You are delivering results not only in terms of reforms, but also in policy coordination, supporting lasting peace in Ukraine. Just yesterday, the European Parliament overwhelmingly recognized the progress you have made. Now it is crucial to maintain the approach, to stay focused on the goal and not to slow down progress, said European Council President Antonio Košta, who is on his first official visit to Montenegro at the invitation of Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović.
At a press conference where he spoke with Milatović, Košta pointed out that becoming the 28th member of the EU by 2028 is a good slogan, but that it would be important for it to happen earlier.
When asked by journalists whether the agreements with the United Arab Emirates are in line with European legislation, Košta replied that European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos sent a letter stating the EU's position, and the condition is that European legislation be respected when it comes to public procurement and nature protection.
"It is very important to maintain good relations with your neighbors, especially with those countries that are already EU members," said Košta.
Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović said that Kosta's visit is a strong incentive not only for Montenegro, but for the entire region's path towards the EU. He pointed out that the visits of Kosta and Kaja Kalas are taking place on the eve of an important summit in Tirana.
"This meeting is a continuation of the dialogue we are conducting. Montenegro is proud of its status as a leader in EU integration. The goal is to become the next member by 2028," Milatović emphasized.
The President said that he and Košta agreed that Montenegro can be the light at the end of the tunnel and that the enlargement process is alive.
"We believe that at the next Intergovernmental Conference, and I hope it will be in June, during the Polish presidency, we will close as many chapters as possible. The EU is still an example of peace, stability, and prosperity, and that is why we want to be part of that club. But values cannot be taken for granted, which is why Montenegro is harmonizing its policy with the EU's policy before joining," Milatović emphasized.
He added that since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, we have shown clear political support, sharing the EU's policy that the country needs lasting peace.
DON'T MISS IT
Milatović thanked the EU and all its members for their support.
Košta said he looks forward to continuing their joint work tomorrow at a meeting with other Western Balkan leaders on enlargement.
Speaking about the extradition of Svetozar Marović, Milatović said that his position is known, and that after seven initiatives from Montenegro, it has not yet happened.
When asked by journalists how the formation of the German government based on the idea that there would be no enlargement would affect Montenegro's entry into the alliance, Košta said that enlargement to the Western Balkans, Moldova, Ukraine, and if it so wishes, Georgia, is the task of the EU.
"Germany continues to be a key supporter of EU enlargement to the Western Balkans. This does not affect your possibility of EU accession," he added.
Bonus video:
