Spajić: Closing the chapter is an absolute state priority, we expect political support from all 27 EU members

Closing the negotiation chapters between Montenegro and the European Union (EU) is an absolute state priority backed by full political and institutional commitment, said Prime Minister Milojko Spajić at a meeting with a delegation of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET).

Spajić, as announced by his office, pointed out that 2026 is the year in which Montenegro marks 20 years since the restoration of independence and chairs the Berlin Process and the Western Balkans Fund.

"This year is monumental, especially because we have a plan to close all negotiation chapters by December. This is an extremely ambitious, very demanding and not at all easy task, probably without precedent," said Spajić.

He said, as stated in the statement, that Montenegro expects political support from all 27 EU member states.

According to Spajić, the state administration is focused on implementing reforms and meeting the final benchmarks in all areas of the negotiation process.

He added that the Government also dedicates special sessions to fulfilling the obligations from the Growth Plan.

"The interlocutors were informed that all administrative, professional and political capacities of the state are fully focused on the implementation of the European agenda, with clearly defined deadlines and measurable results, and that European integration remains a strategic goal of state policy," the statement said.

Spajić's office said that during the meeting, the dynamics of implementing reforms were presented, with a special focus on fulfilling the obligations undertaken in the area of ​​the rule of law, the functioning of institutions, and the harmonization of legislation with the EU acquis.

"It was emphasized that our country's foreign and security policy is fully aligned with EU policy," the statement said.

It added that full commitment, cooperation and operational coordination of the executive and legislative branches were emphasized in order to successfully complete the negotiation process.

The statement states that the AFET delegation, led by David McAllister, said that they are strong advocates of the EU's enlargement policy and that Montenegro can count on support at all stages of accession.