Podgorica, (MINA) – The political and expert support of the EU member states, as well as the work on the preparation of the Accession Treaty, are crucial for the successful completion of Montenegro’s negotiation process with the EU, it was assessed during a meeting between Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic and his Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides.

Milatovic met with Christodoulides in Nicosia, as part of a working visit to Cyprus.

According to the press release from Milatovic’s cabinet, excellent and friendly relations between the two countries were confirmed during the meeting, with agreement that they are entering a new phase of intensified political and institutional cooperation, especially in the context of the European integration of Montenegro.

It is stated that it was pointed out that in December 2025, during the conversation with Christodoulides, Milatovic initiated more intensive support for Montenegro’s European path through the organization of a large number of intergovernmental conferences during Cyprus presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2026, as well as the establishment of an ad hoc working party for the drafting Montenegro’s Accession Treaty.

According to Milatovic’s office, the two presidents discussed the experiences of Cyprus in the EU accession process, with special reference to the final phase of negotiations, harmonization of legislation and strengthening administrative capacities.

“It has been assessed that Cypriot expertise can provide significant support to Montenegro in effectively closing negotiation chapters and preparing for membership”, the press release states.

Christodoulides, as stated, reaffirmed his strong and principled support for the EU enlargement policy and the European perspective of the Western Balkans, with the assessment that Montenegro is the most advanced candidate and reliable partner in the region.

The two officials agreed that the year 2026 will be a key year for the completion of Montenegro’s EU negotiations and that the strong support of member states, such as Cyprus, is of crucial importance for the successful completion of the accession process.