Milatović: We are determined to fulfill our obligations, seize this historic opportunity and become the first new EU member state

We are determined to fulfill our obligations, seize this historic opportunity and become the first member of the European Union (EU), Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović announced today.

The Public Relations Office of the President of Montenegro announced that Milatović welcomed the leaders of the EU and the Western Balkans in Tivat today.

In his opening remarks at the EU-Western Balkans Summit, Milatović said that it was a great honor for Montenegro to host this gathering at a historic moment for the country and its European path.

"This is a milestone for our country, the first Summit of this kind to be held in Montenegro during our accession negotiations, in the year in which we celebrate twenty years since the restoration of independence," Milatović emphasized.

He added that Tivat today is a meeting place for Europe and the Western Balkans, united by a common vision of a peaceful, prosperous and secure future in the European family.

"This Summit is a turning point for Montenegro, for the Western Balkans and for the European Union itself. At a time when the enlargement process has once again gained strategic importance, our meeting brings new hope and new energy to all candidate countries," said Milatović.

The President of Montenegro said that the Summit confirms that commitment, reforms and progress are recognized and valued, and that the European perspective of the region remains real and achievable, and added that for Montenegro this is a moment of responsibility and determination when we send a clear message that Montenegro is ready for the final step.

"We are determined to fulfill our obligations, seize this historic opportunity and become the first member of the European Union, contributing to a stronger, safer and more united Europe," concluded Milatović.