Podgorica, (MINA) – Slovakia sees Montenegro as a frontrunner in the EU accession process, said Slovakia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Juraj Blanar.

Blanar, who is on an official visit to Montenegro, was hosted on Wednesday by President of Montenegro Jakov Milatovic.

During the meeting, according to the press release from Milatovic’s cabinet, the two officials reaffirmed the friendly and partnership-based relations between the two countries, expressing mutual readiness for further improvement of political and economic cooperation.

“The interlocutors welcomed the decision to open a diplomatic and consular representation of Montenegro in Bratislava, assessing that this step will further strengthen political dialogue, economic cooperation and investment activities”, the press release said.

The press release added that special emphasis during the talks was placed on EU enlargement policy and Montenegro’s European path.

“Full EU membership remains our absolute priority. With the support of friends like Slovakia, I am convinced that Montenegro can complete the negotiations by the end of 2026 and achieve its goal of becoming the EU member by 2028”, said Milatovic.

Blanar reaffirmed Slovakia’s strong and continuous support for Montenegro’s European integration, “emphasizing that he sees our country as the EU accession frontrunner”.