Full Breakdown
Montenegro Advances in EU Accession Negotiations
12/17/2025, 12:27:07 AM
Significant Progress in Accession Chapters
On December 16, 2025, Montenegro officially closed five negotiating chapters during the 24th meeting of the Accession Conference held in Brussels. The chapters closed include Chapter 3 (Right of Establishment and Freedom to Provide Services), Chapter 4 (Free Movement of Capital), Chapter 6 (Company Law), Chapter 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development), and Chapter 13 (Fisheries). This milestone brings the total number of closed chapters to twelve, marking a significant advancement in Montenegro's journey towards European Union (EU) membership.
The EU delegation was led by Marie Bjerre, Denmark's Minister for European Affairs, while the Montenegrin delegation was headed by Prime Minister Milojko Spajic. Bjerre emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it represents a substantial step forward for both Montenegro and the EU.
Diplomatic Efforts and Challenges
Prior to the closure, there were challenges, particularly from France, which initially vetoed the closure of Chapters 11 and 13. However, following diplomatic negotiations led by Montenegrin authorities, France agreed to support the closure, contingent upon the introduction of additional monitoring measures. This diplomatic push highlights the complexities of the accession process and the necessity for cooperation among EU member states.
Official Statements on Montenegro's Progress
Marta Kos, the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, praised Montenegro as a frontrunner in the EU integration process, noting that it has closed more negotiation chapters than any other candidate country in the past 16 years. Kos remarked, “The coming year will be decisive, and more than ever, Montenegro will need national unity to reach its goals. We will support you every step of the way.” She acknowledged the significant work that remains, particularly in strengthening the rule of law.
Prime Minister Spajic expressed gratitude towards France for its role in the negotiations, stating, “Thank you also to France. You set us a demanding task... but gave us an opportunity for Montenegro to once again show how serious it is about this process.”
Future Goals and Implications
Montenegro aims to close a total of 21 chapters by the end of 2026, with the ultimate goal of becoming the EU's 28th member state by 2028. The successful closure of these chapters is seen as a crucial step in meeting the conditions for EU accession. As Montenegro moves forward, the emphasis will be on maintaining national unity and focused leadership to navigate the remaining challenges in the accession process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today’s event marks a significant step forward for Montenegro and the European Union,” — Marie Bjerre, Minister for European Affairs of Denmark
- “Friends are often those who also place us in challenges that confirm our true value”, Spajic added.” — Milojko Spajic, Prime Minister of Montenegro
This recent development in Montenegro's EU accession negotiations underscores the ongoing commitment of both Montenegro and the EU to work collaboratively towards a shared future.
