Podgorica, (MINA) – Ireland took over from Cyprus the six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) on Wednesday, with the continuation of the enlargement process expected to be one of the key priorities.

Ireland, which has been an EU member since 1973, is taking over the presidency of the Council for the eighth time, while this term will focus on improving the competitiveness, values ​​and security of the Union.

According to the website of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU states, competitiveness, European values ​​and security are three interlocking pillars and that the Presidency will work intensively on proposals within each of them, as well as priorities which span all three, including ongoing support for Ukraine and global EU engagement.

The Montenegrin Ministry of European Affairs (MEA) previously announced that the next EU-Montenegro Intergovernmental Conference will be held on July 14, shortly after Ireland takes over the six-month presidency of the EU Council.

Montenegro’s goal is to close all negotiating chapters by the end of the year, by the end of the Irish presidency.