Today, the Chief Negotiator for Montenegro, Predrag Zenović, met with the non-resident Ambassador of Ireland to Montenegro, based in Budapest, Ragnar Almkvist.
Ambassador Almkvist emphasized that since Ireland joined the European Union in 1973, it has been a strong advocate for further EU enlargement and will continue to offer robust support to Montenegro in its accession process.
Zenović expressed gratitude for Ireland’s ongoing support and highlighted the importance of this assistance in the upcoming period, particularly in relation to closing chapters by the end of 2026, as outlined in Montenegro’s national reform plan and EU obligations.
“Ireland’s support, especially at crucial moments such as holding the EU Council presidency, will be invaluable. For Ireland, the European Union has been a platform for strong economic growth, and these experiences could be invaluable to Montenegro. I believe that together, we can achieve the set goals for our shared European future,” Zenović stated.
Ambassador Almkvist expressed satisfaction that Ireland will be presiding over the EU Council in the second half of 2026, which will provide an opportunity for closer collaboration with Montenegro at key moments in its accession process.
At the end of the meeting, the possibility of a diplomatic visit to Ireland was discussed, aimed at informing the Irish public about Montenegro’s progress and challenges on its European path. Both sides agreed on the need to continue intensive communication at the technical-expert level in the coming period.