Montenegro is making significant strides toward European Union membership, with recent endorsements from high-ranking EU officials. The nation has also received pre-financing under the EU Growth Plan, underscoring its commitment to reforms and economic alignment with the bloc. This progress positions Montenegro as a frontrunner among Western Balkan countries for future EU accession.
Montenegro’s EU Accession: A Frontrunner’s Journey
Montenegro has been lauded by European Council President António Costa as a prime example of positive momentum in EU enlargement. During his official visit to Podgorica, Costa commended Montenegro’s ambition, dedicated work, and focus on becoming a new EU member. The European Parliament has also recognized Montenegro’s significant progress, particularly its full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, including support for peace in Ukraine.
- Montenegro is considered a frontrunner for EU membership among Western Balkan countries.
- The European Council President, António Costa, praised Montenegro’s progress and urged continued focus on reforms.
- Montenegro maintains full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, including support for Ukraine.
The 2028 Membership Goal and Beyond
Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović has set an ambitious target of becoming the 28th EU member by 2028. While Costa acknowledged this as a "good slogan," he emphasized the importance of achieving this milestone as soon as possible through continued reforms. The EU views enlargement as a crucial geopolitical investment for stability, peace, and prosperity across Europe, including the Western Balkans.
EU Growth Plan Pre-financing
Montenegro has received pre-financing under the EU Growth Plan, a testament to its commitment to economic reforms and integration. This financial support aims to accelerate the country’s alignment with EU standards and further its economic development, paving the way for smoother accession.
Challenges and External Influences
Despite the positive outlook, Montenegro faces challenges, including external influences that could impede its EU path. Croatian President Zoran Milanović has expressed skepticism about further EU enlargement, suggesting Montenegro might be the only exception. Concerns also exist regarding Serbian influence and the potential for internal political instability to derail reform efforts. However, EU and US support remains critical to ensure Montenegro stays on its pro-Western trajectory.
Sources
- Croatian President: No One Will Enter The EU Anymore, Except Maybe Montenegro, Sarajevo Times.
- Albania and Montenegro could join the EU before the others, Costa tells Euronews, Euronews.com.
- António Costa in Podgorica: Montenegro Should Maintain Focus and Not Slow Down Progress, EEAS.
- Montenegro’s fight for EU membership amid Serbian revanchism, New Eastern Europe.
- Costa praises Montenegro’s EU progress, urges focus on 2028 membership goal, Euronews.
