Oct 27, 2024 – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Montenegro’s progress toward EU membership on Saturday, describing the country’s EU accession goal of 2028 as “ambitious but achievable.” Speaking in Podgorica as part of a Western Balkans tour, von der Leyen highlighted Montenegro’s “speed and quality” in meeting EU standards, adding that the country’s recent steps demonstrate an impressive commitment to the integration process.
“Montenegro has good reason to be proud of what has been achieved,” von der Leyen said, emphasizing that EU enlargement will remain a priority throughout her term. Von der Leyen’s visit underlined her support for accelerated integration across the Western Balkans, a stance she has promoted as critical for the region’s stability and prosperity.
Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajic also expressed determination to bring the country closer to EU standards, committing to complete all necessary chapters by 2026. “This is a very ambitious target, but it is possible to achieve,” Spajic stated, underscoring the need for broad political support and heightened cooperation across parties.
The European Commission leader also met with Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic to discuss Montenegro’s obligations for meeting EU benchmarks, which remain central to its 2028 membership aspiration.
Von der Leyen’s remarks come as the EU seeks to strengthen ties with Western Balkan nations, a region increasingly viewed as vital to EU strategic interests. Montenegro, which began formal EU accession talks in 2012, has been seen as a frontrunner in the region’s integration efforts, setting a potential precedent for neighboring states.
