European Commission on Montenegro: Focus and broad political support for remaining reforms must be maintained

The European Commission has responded to the newspaper Vijesti regarding the latest political developments in Montenegro, stressing that in the final phase of accession negotiations it is essential to maintain focus and broad political support for the remaining reforms, particularly in the area of the rule of law.

In its response, the Commission notes that Montenegro has closed 18 of 33 negotiating chapters and is advancing steadily toward membership in the European Union. “During the summer, the country accelerated sectoral reforms across all chapters — clear proof that Montenegro’s work and dedication are bearing fruit,” the response says, adding that Brussels will continue to support Podgorica on its European path.

The Commission’s statement comes at a moment of political tension, after the opposition announced it was ending cooperation with the government and the parliamentary majority. The trigger was yesterday’s failed session of the Assembly, which was supposed to discuss the dismissal of its speaker, Andrija Mandić — only 39 MPs were present in the hall, two fewer than the required quorum.

According to reports, Mandić did not allow the televised broadcast of the MPs’ roll call or the entry of media representatives into the plenary hall. The initiative to dismiss him could return to the agenda at the first session of the regular parliamentary session, scheduled for October 1.

Source: Vijesti