The European Union must be focused on internal reform with a constant commitment to enlargement policy and presence in the Western Balkans, in order to get ready to welcome new members, State Secretary of the French Ministry of the Army Geneviève Darrieussecq and Chief Negotiator Aleksandar Drljević assessed at a meeting.
Chief Negotiator Drljević stressed the need to maintain the continuity of the country`s progressive progress towards the EU, as we are getting close to one of the final phases which involves temporary closure of the negotiation chapters.
The Chief Negotiator referred to the EU`s decision not to set a start date for negotiations with Northern Macedonia and Albania. “We sincerely support every step of our neighbours on the European path, because we believe that the success of each country individually contributes to the progress of the region as a whole. Although we are not pleased with this decision, it should be seen as an encouragement for the entire region to continue to implement reforms more decisively, so that each country is ready to join the EU”, the Chief Negotiator highlighted.
Drljević thanked for the expert support of France so far, especially in the area of the rule of law, and expressed his expectation that there will be no lack of support of France and other EU member in the coming period, especially when it comes to opening the remaining chapter, but also closing the chapters that are ready for that.
Darrieussecq congratulated Montenegro on the reforms implemented so far, especially in the area of the rule of law, which is a motivation to enlargement policy, which remains on the EU agenda. Speaking about the activities of the French Ministry of the Army, she said that the defence area was important for maintaining the stability of the EU and states aspiring to join the EU.
Drljević and Darrieussecq agreed that it is relevant to continue the cooperation between Montenegro and France, as it strengthens the relations between the EU and the Western Balkans as a whole and gives stimulus to the progress of the regional countries.
GENERAL SECRETARIAT OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO
SECTOR FOR INFORMING THE PUBLIC ABOUT THE EU AND THE EU ACCESSION PROCESS
