Podgorica, (MINA) - Montenegro is the most advanced candidate country in the European integration process and could achieve its goal of becoming an EU member state by 2028, said Slovakia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Juraj Blanar.

Speaking at a press conference with his Montenegrin counterpart, Ervin Ibrahimovic, he said that Slovakia supports the Western Balkans in its progress towards the EU.

According to Blanar, the EU will not be complete without the countries of that region.

“Today I can say that we view Montenegro with optimism, as it has advanced the furthest in the process. Montenegro can achieve its goal of becoming an EU member state in 2028”, Blanar said.

He said that Slovakia is ready to help in that process.

“Be more optimistic about your progress and EU accession. Yesterday, during my meetings, I had the feeling that there might be some skepticism, but I believe you are on an excellent path and that there is no room for pessimism”, said Blanar, who is on an official visit to Montenegro.

He noted that bilateral relations between Montenegro and Slovakia are at an excellent level.

Ibrahimovic said that they had a very meaningful and open discussion.

According to him, the two countries maintain friendly relations and share common European values ​​of peace, stability and prosperity.

Ibrahimovic said that the Government made a decision to open the Embassy of Montenegro in Slovakia with headquarters in Bratislava, which, as he pointed out, is a confirmation of both governments’ desire to improve good friendly relations.

Ibrahimovic thanked Slovakia, emphasizing that it is a strong partner in Montenegro’s EU accession process.

As he said, Montenegro is strongly committed to completing the negotiation process this year and becoming a full member of the EU by 2028.