Gorčević: Montenegro is a convincing example of how European reforms can transform society

Montenegro remains firmly committed to implementing reforms and achieving the status of a full member of the European Union (EU) by 2028 in accordance with merit-based principles, said Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević, emphasizing that this year will be decisive for the integration process.

She participated in the informal meeting of European Affairs Ministers (GAC) held in Cyprus, as part of that country's presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Gorčević, as announced by the Ministry of European Affairs, emphasized that 2026 will be a decisive year for Montenegro, as the country intends to complete the negotiation process by the end of the year.

According to her, Montenegro has come a long way, and this goal seemed unimaginable just a few years ago.

"Montenegro today represents a convincing example of how European reforms can transform society, even in complex circumstances and ongoing socio-economic challenges in the Western Balkans. This transformation is visible in institutions, public administration, economic management and in the everyday expectations of our citizens," said Gorčević.

She emphasized that Montenegro remains firmly committed to implementing transformational reforms and achieving full member status by 2028 in accordance with merit-based principles.

"The recent decision of the European Union to form an ad hoc working group to draft the Accession Treaty of Montenegro is not only a historic milestone for our country, but also a strong impulse at the very heart of the EU and its enlargement policy. We are extremely grateful to the Cypriot Presidency for recognizing our efforts and enabling our dedicated work to yield visible and tangible results," said Gorčević.

She emphasized that in the current, complex geopolitical circumstances, the EU must demonstrate that it is capable of acting strategically, defending its values, and strengthening its position in the world.

"Enlargement policy is one of the EU's most powerful instruments. In both theoretical and practical terms, the success of European integration is a direct indicator of the Union's geopolitical relevance. Therefore, enlargement is not just a technical process, but a strategic choice about the future of Europe," Gorčević stated.

She pointed to the importance of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, which is accompanied by ambitious reform agendas, as well as participation in initiatives that bring practical benefits to everyday life, such as SEPA and the abolition of roaming charges, which will produce visible benefits for citizens and businesses.

Gorčević said that Montenegro is honored to host the EU-Western Balkans Summit this year, when the country celebrates the 20th anniversary of the restoration of its independence.

"This June, we will host leaders of the EU and member states, which will provide us with the opportunity to present the achievements that Montenegro has made on its European path," concluded Gorčević.

The Ministers of European Affairs of the EU member states emphasized that the Union finds itself in the most demanding security and geopolitical context in the last few decades and that in such circumstances, enlargement is no longer just a political choice but a strategic investment in the peace, stability and security of the entire European continent.

They assessed that enlargement strengthens the security, economic resilience and global role of the Union when built on strong institutions and common standards and values.