The delegation is on an official visit to Montenegro as part of the ongoing dialogue and exchange of experiences in the field of European integration. The visit was an opportunity to discuss the final phase of the accession process and the next steps towards membership in the European Union.
During the meeting, special attention was paid to the dynamics of closing negotiation chapters and the Treaty on the Accession of Montenegro to the EU. On that occasion, Austria's continued support for Montenegro's European path was emphasized, with the assessment that the final steps are the most demanding, but also crucial for the successful completion of negotiations.
The Minister assessed that since the election of the 44th Government of Montenegro, a new dynamic of negotiations has been established, with a clear focus on results and accelerated closure of chapters. She particularly emphasized the importance of obtaining the IBAR, which she marked as a milestone in the European integration process, as well as the recent approval of the formation of the Working Group for the drafting of the Treaty on the Accession of Montenegro to the European Union.
"This is a clear signal that we are entering the final phase of the European path, in which, in parallel with the closing of the negotiation chapters, the Accession Treaty is being prepared as a legal and technical confirmation of the entire negotiation process," Gorčević stated.
During the meeting, representatives of the Austrian delegation emphasized their support for Montenegro's European path and assessed that the country is making visible progress in the final phase of the negotiation process.
"Austria strongly supports Montenegro's European path and recognizes the progress made in the final phase of negotiations. Montenegro is demonstrating consistent commitment to reforms and a clear European orientation, and we expect that the next steps will be successfully implemented in line with the dynamics of the enlargement process," the delegation said.
The Minister emphasized that the closing of the chapter represents a profound transformation of the country through the strengthening of the overall system in line with European standards. In this context, she emphasized that all processes are being carried out in close cooperation with the European Commission and the Member States, including Austria, whose expert support has concrete and practical value in the implementation of reforms.
"We know what we need to do and we have shown that we are a reliable partner. Every law and every reform is being done in cooperation with the European Commission and experts from the member states," she stressed.
She also emphasized that membership in the European Union is, above all, a question of values, stability and quality of life.
"Membership in the European Union is not just a matter of financial support, but above all of values, the rule of law, stability and quality of life. These are the standards that the citizens of Montenegro clearly want," she said.
She emphasized that Montenegro is taking an active and constructive role in the European integration process, not only as a candidate, but as a partner contributing to common European policies.
"Montenegro does not see itself only as a beneficiary of European policies, but as an active participant in their creation and implementation. Our contribution is reflected in the stability, reliability and important geostrategic potential that we bring to the Western Balkans region," said Gorčević.
Speaking about the end of the process, Gorčević said that Montenegro's European path is clear and irreversible, with full commitment to meeting all criteria.
"We have no backup plan, our path is European. We are confident in our capacities and determined to fulfill all the criteria, so that we can enter the European Union ready, stable and as an equal partner," she concluded.
The interlocutors agreed that Montenegro's progress represents an important signal for the Western Balkans region and further strengthens the credibility of the European Union's enlargement policy.
