Podgorica, (MINA) - Montenegro is entering the year of chairing the Berlin Process with a clear focus on people, leadership and reforms aimed at achieving full membership in the European Union (EU).

This was announced at the press conference presenting the first even – the ministerial meeting titled “People4Europe – Strengthening leadership and talent for a reformed public administration ready for the EU”.

The ministerial meeting, as announced by the Ministry of Public Administration (MJU), will be held on April 20 and 21 in Budva.

Minister of Public Administration Marash Dukaj said that Montenegro has demonstrated continuity in reforms and a constructive role in the region.

“Which is why our chairmanship of the Berlin Process in 2026 is a logical step forward towards a European perspective”, Dukaj added.

He said that today Montenegro is choosing Europe and reforms.

“In the year in which we mark the 20th anniversary of independence, we have an additional motive and responsibility to work even harder to achieve full EU membership”, Dukaj said.

He emphasized that the ministerial meeting will bring together ministers of public administration of the Western Balkan countries, as well as senior officials from EU member states and representatives of the EU Delegation, the Regional School of Public Administration, as well as the ambassadors of the countries participating in the Berlin Process in Montenegro.

Advisor to the Prime Minister and National Berlin Process Coordinator Milica Perisic pointed out the importance of the chairmanship for Montenegro’s regional and European perspective.

She stated that more than 25 events are planned during the chairmanship, including 12 ministerial meetings, culminating in the Leaders’ Summit in October.

Perisic also recalled the motto of the chairmanship.

“Our motto, “Region in Motion. Owners of Change”, clearly reflects our approach. We want a region that actively works towards progress, takes responsibility and delivers concrete and lasting results to citizens”, said Perisic.

Deputy Ambassador of Germany in Montenegro Ralf Reusch congratulated Montenegro on taking over the chairmanship and emphasized its importance for the region.

He particularly emphasized the importance of this year for Montenegro, noting that 2026 will be a year of great importance for Montenegro, which at the same time marks an important independence jubilee and enters the final phase of EU accession negotiations.