Montenegro's strong commitment to further alignment with European standards and policies was confirmed.
At the meeting with the Director General for the Western Balkans within DG ENEST, Valentina Superti, it was emphasized that Montenegro highly appreciates the continued support of the European Commission, especially within Chapter 24. It was emphasized that complex security challenges and accelerated digitalization require additional capacity building, with a particular focus on the fight against terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization. Superti provided full support for Montenegro's further progress on the European path, recognizing the achieved results and reform commitment, while the Montenegrin delegation pointed out the need for additional EU support in the areas of digital security, artificial intelligence and hybrid threats.
During the meeting with the Deputy Director General of DG HOME, Mr. Olivi Onidi, the high evaluation of the cooperation was confirmed and the role of this European Commission directorate as a key partner in strengthening the security system was emphasized. The discussion focused on modern threats that are increasingly moving to the digital space, with a particular emphasis on the online radicalization of youth and the growing use of artificial intelligence for propaganda purposes. The need for further improvement of technical and operational capacities was highlighted, in order to ensure an efficient and proactive response.
Onidi particularly praised Montenegro's overall activities and concrete results in strengthening the security system and emphasized the importance of harmonization with Schengen standards, emphasizing that the final phase of preparing the Action Plan for 2026, with clearly defined operational objectives in the areas of border management, migration, data exchange and strengthening institutional capacities, represents a concrete and credible step towards future integration into the Schengen area.
State Secretary Petar Koprivica emphasized that Montenegro remains consistent with its strategic commitment to develop its security system fully in line with European standards: "Montenegro is strongly committed to further strengthening its capacities in the fight against terrorism and modern security threats. In this regard, we operate in sync with the European Union member states, following and implementing their policies and standards, with a clear goal - full operational integration into the European security space."
Representatives of the European Commission expressed their readiness to continue strong support to Montenegro in strengthening capacities, improving legislation and further integration into European security systems, including data exchange, as well as in the areas of combating terrorist financing and protecting critical infrastructure.
The interlocutors jointly assessed that the continuation of strong and partnership-based cooperation with the institutions of the European Union is crucial for an effective response to contemporary security challenges and further progress of Montenegro on its European path.
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