This week, Montenegro announced notable progress on its path to EU membership, as current EU members agreed to begin work on the country's accession treaty. This decision was made during a meeting of ambassadors from member states, where the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, described this step as a "major milestone" and a "significant step towards EU membership."
During the joint advisory committee meeting held on Friday in the capital Podgorica, the Minister for European Affairs, Maida Gorshevic, confirmed that the drafting of the accession treaty is part of closing negotiation chapters, indicating the "final lap" in a journey that has lasted over 14 years towards joining the EU. She clarified that this step represents the final stage of the negotiation process, with the accession date set for 2028.
Details of the Event
The joint advisory committee established between the EU and civil society in Montenegro serves as a platform to incorporate civil society's perspective within the institutional framework of the EU regarding the Stabilization and Association Agreement between the two parties. Gorshevic highlighted the important role that civil society plays in the accession process through its participation in working groups.
At the same event, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, Riccardo Serri, stated that "Montenegro has a historic opportunity to conclude its EU accession process." However, he warned that "there is no time to waste," noting that progress depends on implementing tangible reforms in the coming months, and that this process must be led by institutions in cooperation with civil society.
Background & Context
Montenegro, alongside Albania, has been a frontrunner in the EU accession process since Croatia joined in 2013. Although not part of the Eurozone, Montenegro has unilaterally adopted the euro as its currency. Accession talks have continued for nearly 14 years, despite several key obstacles still facing Montenegro.
The EU has established what are known as "chapters," which are sets of criteria that Montenegro must align with to gain membership. The country has so far completed negotiations on 14 out of 35 chapters.
Impact & Consequences
The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Olivia Kos, affirmed that "Montenegro's position within the EU is beginning to take shape now." She noted that this process provides an opportunity to leverage lessons learned from previous expansions and to include new and robust guarantees in future accession treaties to prevent backsliding on the rule of law and core values.
These steps are a positive indicator of regional stability and may contribute to enhancing cooperation between Balkan countries and the EU, which could positively reflect on security and economic development in the region.
Regional Significance
Montenegro's EU accession process is particularly significant for Arab countries, as it reflects trends towards enhancing regional and international cooperation. Additionally, Montenegro's success in achieving this goal may encourage other countries in the region to pursue similar partnerships with the EU, potentially opening new avenues for economic and political cooperation.
In conclusion, Montenegro's progress towards EU membership represents an important step not only for the country itself but also for the region as a whole, as this process can contribute to enhancing stability and development in the Balkan states.