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Germany Signals Optimism on Montenegro’s EU Prospects
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German Optimism on Montenegro’s EU Prospects
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Montenegro has made “remarkable progress” toward EU membership and that its ambition is being heard across Europe. Wadephul made the remarks after traveling to Montenegro for the Berlin Process foreign-minister meeting in Budva, where he met Montenegrin counterpart Ervin Ibrahimovic and EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos. He added that countries willing and able to meet EU criteria can succeed in the coming years.
Background: Montenegro’s EU Journey
Montenegro is one of six Western-Balkan states officially recognised as EU candidates, alongside Albania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and potential candidate Kosovo. The nation declared independence from Serbia in 2006, adopted the euro de facto in 2002, and joined NATO in 2017. Public support for EU accession is reported at roughly 80 %. The government has set a target of becoming the EU’s 28th member by 2028, a timeline that EU officials consider realistic if reforms continue.
Official Statements & Responses
At the Budva meeting, Wadephul emphasized that Montenegro’s reforms set an example for the region and that regional cooperation on reconciliation and reforms was a priority. He noted that the EU’s enlargement commissioner has signaled the possibility of completing technical negotiations by the end of the year, reinforcing the 2028 accession target. Montenegrin officials welcomed the German comments as encouragement for ongoing reforms.
Key Data & Statistics
Verbatim Quotes
- “Montenegro has made remarkable progress towards EU membership – it thus sets an example for the Western Balkans,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister
- “Those who are willing and able to join the European Union and meet the criteria can succeed in the coming years,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister