Brussels, (MINA) – Montenegro can close the EU accession negotiations by the end of the year if it maintains progress in the rule of law and political stability, assessed European Parliament Rapporteur for Montenegro, Marjan Sarec.

Sarec presented on Wednesday the draft report on Montenegro’s progress to the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), pointing out that Montenegro remains the most advanced candidate country for the membership in the EU.

He said that tangible progress has been achieved over the past year and that additional negotiating chapters have been provisionally closed, bringing their total number to 13.

Sarec recalled that Montenegro has set itself an ambitious objective: to conclude accession negotiations by the end of 2026.

“This report acknowledges that progress. At the same time, it clearly emphasizes that the decisive phase of the process still lies ahead”, Sarec said.

He said that Montenegro remains fully aligned with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy, including restrictive measures.

He pointed out that the core of the accession process remains the rule of law and that chapters 23 and 24 continue to be the key benchmarks of progress.

Sarec said that the report calls for further strengthening of the judicial independence and efficiency, faster and transparent appointments in the judiciary and prosecution services, and sustainable results in the fight against high-level corruption and organized crime.

According to him, in the area of ​​democracy, the report welcomes the amendments to the electoral framework, the improvement in the campaign finance oversight and enhanced representation of women.

“At the same time, it highlights the need for constructive political dialogue and stability, as reforms cannot be effectively implemented without cooperation between the government and the parliament”, said Sarec.

He added that media freedom remains a fundamental value.

“We condemn all forms of attacks against journalists and underline the importance of independent regulatory authorities and a pluralistic media landscape. Civil society must be involved in policy-making, not as a formality, but as a genuine partner”, Sarec said.

When it comes to the economy, he noted that the report welcomes Montenegro’s participation in the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans and the progress in the absorption of EU funds. 

Sarec added that special attention was paid to the environment and energy and that Chapter 27 remains one of the most demanding.

He believes that the report is balanced, recognizes achievements, clearly identifies challenges and encourages further reforms.

Sarec said that Montenegro has made significant progress.

“However, the final success will depend on sustainable results in the rule of law, political stability and the ability to place the strategic objective of membership above day-to-day politics. If such maturity is maintained, the goal of concluding negotiations by the end of 2026 is attainable”, Sarec said.