“Montenegro remains committed to European integration and the reforms leading to EU membership. France’s support is extremely important to us, as they advocate for a merit-based process and the acceleration of the Western Balkans’ integration,” stated Montenegro’s Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorčević, during a meeting in Paris with the French Minister Delegate for Europe, Benjamin Griveaux.
“Expert support is welcome, but in addition to that Montenegro also needs a strong political voice in European institutions and member states to ensure the successful conclusion of the negotiation process,” emphasized Minister Gorčević.
Minister Griveaux announced his official visit to Montenegro in mid-March, highlighting that he would visit the Regional Cyber Capacity Center for the Western Balkans, which was opened in Podgorica with financial support from France and Slovenia.
Minister Griveaux also expressed interest in the Western Balkans Growth Plan and pointed out that the European Union has a clear interest in Montenegro becoming the next member.
The meeting also discussed opportunities for cooperation in the energy, education, and innovation sectors, where France could play a key role in future projects. Another topic was the initiative for Montenegro to host the next European Political Community Summit, which would send a strong message of European support for the region.
During her official visit to Paris, Minister Gorčević also met with the deputy and secretary of the France-Montenegro Friendship Group in the National Assembly, Liliana Tangi, the special envoy for the Western Balkans in the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, René Trocaz, the Secretary General for European Affairs, Emmanuelle Puize-Jeven, and Senator Marta de Sidrac, President of the France-Western Balkans Friendship Group in the French Senate.
“French officials clearly see Montenegro as the next EU member and strongly support the merit-based process,” stated Minister Gorčević following the working visit.
It was emphasized that it is crucial to continue reforms in key areas, particularly in the rule of law to ensure Montenegro achieves its strategic goal – full membership in the European Union.
Minister Gorčević reminded that Montenegro is in the closing phase of the negotiation process, with all chapters open and six temporarily closed and assessed that the key focus is on fulfilling the final obligations in the rule of law area.
This officila visit strengthens more the relations between Montenegro and France confirming Montenegro’s commitment to its European path and its continued progress toward EU membership.