Von der Leyen: We are preparing for Montenegro's borders to become EU borders, and in time for Montenegro to join Schengen

We are preparing for Montenegro's borders to become the borders of the European Union (EU), and in time for Montenegro to join Schengen, European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen announced today.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) announced that the new administrative building of the border police in the Podgorica settlement of Zagorič, intended to strengthen coordination between Montenegrin border and migration authorities, was opened today and handed over to the MUP by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The statement states that the ceremony was attended by Von der Leyen, along with senior representatives of the Government of Montenegro, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy Aleksa Bečić, Minister of Interior Danilo Šaranović, and Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović.

The ceremony was also attended by the Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro Johan Sattler, IOM Deputy Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Dragan Aleksoski, Senior Regional Program Coordinator Donatela Bradić, as well as Vladimir Đorđijev, Head of IOM Mission in Montenegro.

"Funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) within the framework of the 'EU Support to Migration and Border Management' program, this building will serve as the headquarters of the Border Police Sector, including the premises of the future National Coordination Center (NCC). The center provides the infrastructure necessary for improved inter-institutional coordination, information exchange for risk analysis and situational awareness in the field of border management," the Ministry of Interior said in a statement.

Von der Leyen said that the center represents a significant step towards Montenegro's European future.

"This center gives the Montenegrin border police the means to monitor the borders, exchange information and coordinate with agencies in the EU. So, that's it - we are preparing for Montenegro's borders to become EU borders, and in time for Montenegro to join Schengen. This means safer borders for Montenegro and greater security for Europe as a whole," said Von der Leyen.

Spajić emphasized that by improving the protection of Montenegro's borders, we are strengthening security and ensuring more efficient border management, preparing for the future role of guarding the EU's external border.

Bečić said that Von der Leyen's third visit to Montenegro this year is "a strong confirmation of European support for the reforms we are implementing and a clear message that Montenegro is on the right path towards the European Union."

"Our goal is clear: to be ready to take responsibility for the European Union border, on land, at sea and in the air, according to the highest European standards. We continue to work dedicatedly, responsibly and without interruption, because membership in the European Union for Montenegro is not just a political goal, it is an obligation to build stronger institutions, a safer state and a better life for our citizens," said Bečić.

Šaranović said that the border police are a key link in protecting the state border, and that its continued strengthening means safer borders, more efficient control, and better data exchange with partner services.

"The National Coordination Center represents much more than an investment in infrastructure. It is confirmation that we are strengthening our capacities and capabilities to respond to modern security challenges. Our contribution to this project shows that Montenegro is not waiting for membership in the European Union to take on the responsibility that belongs to it, but that through concrete results we are already building capacities ready for that responsibility today," said Šaranović.

This building represents a tangible symbol of Montenegro's progress in strengthening border management and institutional capacity, and ensuring security, stability and compliance with European Union best practices and global frameworks. Built and equipped at a contractual value of almost 3 million euros, with an additional contribution from Montenegro of over half a million euros. The building occupies a gross area of ​​1.423,14 m² and consists of a ground floor and three floors. It includes 85 rooms spread over four levels, including operational rooms, meeting rooms, technical rooms, archives, offices, as well as a dedicated space for drone operation and maintenance. The complex also includes 49 parking spaces, ensuring full functionality for future operational teams.

Officials toured the newly constructed administrative building and received an overview of how the future center will support closer coordination among relevant institutions.

"This project demonstrates how continued investment in modern infrastructure and institutional capacity can contribute to more secure borders, more efficient management and continued alignment with EU standards, as well as provide opportunities for future development. As Montenegro gradually progresses towards EU membership, IOM remains committed to supporting national institutions and partners in meeting accession priorities, while continuing to provide expertise and partnership beyond accession," said Vladimir Gjorgjiev, Head of IOM Mission in Montenegro.