The European Union (EU) recognizes Montenegro's commitment to European integration and the constructive contribution it makes to common security, said European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius.
The Ministers of Defense and Foreign Affairs, Dragan Krapović and Ervin Ibrahimović, met with Kubilius as part of the first Dialogue in the field of Defense and Security between Montenegro and the EU, which was held today in Brussels.
As announced by the Ministry of Defense, Krapović informed Kubilius about the dynamics of Montenegro's progress on its European path, emphasizing that the latest report by the European Commission represents a strong confirmation of successful reform processes.
He recalled that the Government's goal is to successfully conclude negotiations with the EU by the end of next year, with a clear ambition for Montenegro to become a full member of the Union in 2028.
Speaking about defense cooperation with the EU, Krapović emphasized that Montenegro is fully aligned with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, as well as actively contributing to missions and operations within the CSDP format.
He also pointed out that Montenegro plans to increase its contribution by sending instructors to the Military Assistance Mission in Support of Ukraine (EUMAM).
Krapović said that Montenegro greatly appreciates the EU's support within the framework of the European Peace Facility, through which Montenegro was granted an assistance measure for this year, for the procurement of equipment for the needs of the Army.
Kubilius, as announced, praised Montenegro's commitment to European integration and emphasized that the EU recognizes its constructive contribution to common security.
"He stressed that the Union greatly values the stability and reliability that Montenegro is demonstrating, and expressed his expectation that the reform pace will continue and be further strengthened," the statement said.
The Ministry of Defense said that Krapović and Kubilijus also exchanged opinions on current geopolitical developments and their impact on the broader security context.
Krapović emphasized that enlargement is of strategic importance, not only for Montenegro and the Western Balkans region, but also for the entire European continent.
With regard to strengthening the European defense dimension, Krapović emphasized that Montenegro welcomes the development of various European security initiatives, emphasizing the importance of their synergy and complementarity with NATO.
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