EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos recently visited Montenegro, marking her first mission to the Western Balkans. Her visit aimed to assess the progress of Montenegro’s EU accession negotiations and to address pressing local issues, including recent tragedies and the importance of gender equality.
Key Takeaways
- Commissioner Kos emphasizes the importance of maritime safety and EU alignment.
- She pays tribute to victims of a tragic shooting in Cetinje.
- Discussions on gender equality and women’s empowerment are prioritized.
Focus on Maritime Safety
During her visit, Commissioner Kos toured the Maritime Safety Centre in Bar, where she highlighted the significance of EU support in enhancing maritime safety standards. The center is part of two EU-funded projects totaling โฌ3.7 million, aimed at improving the Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System (VTMIS) along Montenegroโs Adriatic coastline.
Kos praised the achievements made under these projects, stating, "Maritime safety is an important part of Europeโs protection, and it is of utmost importance for the EU and its Member States." She underscored the need for Montenegro to adopt stringent maritime safety regulations to mitigate environmental risks and prevent substandard shipping practices.
Tribute to Victims in Cetinje
In a somber part of her visit, Commissioner Kos paid her respects to the victims of a tragic shooting in Cetinje that claimed 13 lives, including two children. Accompanied by the Mayor of Cetinje, she lit candles in memory of the victims and expressed her condolences to their families.
Kos stated, "Cetinje, you are not alone. Let this moment of sorrow serve as a reminder of the strength of unity โ within your community, Montenegro, and the wider European family." She reiterated the EU’s commitment to assist Montenegro in addressing challenges such as illegal arms trade and fostering economic development in the region.
Promoting Gender Equality
A significant aspect of Commissioner Kos’s visit was her focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. She met with women leaders from various sectors, emphasizing that gender equality is a fundamental EU value and a crucial component of Montenegroโs EU accession process.
Kos urged Montenegrin authorities to prioritize reforms related to human rights, gender equality, and social inclusion. She stated, "Montenegro must address the gender pay gap, improve womenโs participation in decision-making processes, and combat gender stereotypes. These are essential steps not only for alignment with EU standards but also for building a more democratic and prosperous society."
Conclusion
Commissioner Kos’s visit to Montenegro underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting the country’s aspirations for membership. By focusing on critical issues such as maritime safety, the aftermath of recent tragedies, and the promotion of gender equality, the Commissioner aims to reinforce Montenegro’s path toward EU integration. Her engagements reflect a broader strategy to enhance local governance and civil society participation, which are vital for the successful implementation of EU standards and values in Montenegro.
Sources
- EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos visited the Maritime Safety Centre, Municipality of Bar, and held discussions with influential women of Montenegro | EEAS, EEAS.
- Commissioner Kos travels to Montenegro to take stock of EU accession negotiations – EU Reporter, EU Reporter.
- Commissioner Kos pays respect to victims of tragic shooting in Cetinje | EEAS, EEAS.
