Ibrahimović: Closing two more chapters confirms that reform efforts are yielding concrete results

The closing of two more chapters in negotiations with the European Union (EU) is confirmation that reform efforts are yielding concrete results, said Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović.

Ibrahimović participated in the Intergovernmental Conference between the EU and Montenegro in Brussels, as a member of the delegation led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, at which Chapters 8 and 29, relating to competition and the customs union, were provisionally closed.

A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) states that this continues the strong momentum in the EU accession process.

"The closure of new chapters confirms Montenegro's concrete progress in implementing European reforms and meeting the demanding membership criteria. Progress in the areas of competition policy and the customs union further strengthens legal certainty, improves business conditions and confirms Montenegro's readiness for full participation in the single European market," the statement said.

The achieved result, as assessed by Minister Ibrahimović, represents another confirmation of the credibility of Montenegro's European path and the dedicated work of all institutions in fulfilling the obligations from the negotiation process.

"The closure of two more negotiation chapters is an important success for Montenegro and a clear confirmation that reform efforts are yielding concrete results. This is the result of the responsible and dedicated work of state institutions, but also of the strong support and trust that the EU provides to Montenegro on our common path," said Ibrahimović.

He emphasized that Montenegro remains determined to seize the historic moment that has opened up before the country.

"Our goal is clear - to close all remaining negotiation chapters in partnership with the European Union institutions and member states by the end of this year, successfully complete the accession process and become the next full member of the European Union. Montenegro is ready to take on the responsibility that comes with membership and to contribute to the common European project," said Ibrahimović.

The statement emphasizes that, after today's Intergovernmental Conference, Montenegro has temporarily closed 18 out of a total of 33 negotiation chapters, which further confirms its status as the most advanced candidate for EU membership and continuity in achieving results on the European path.

"This success represents an important step towards achieving the country's strategic goal - full membership in the EU - and a strong confirmation of Montenegro's European commitment. In the coming period, the priority remains the continuation of intensive work with EU institutions and member states, while accelerating reform activities in order to fulfill remaining obligations and successfully bring the negotiation process to a close," the statement said.