Montenegro’s path toward the European Union took a significant step forward during the official visit of European Council President Antonio Costa on Wednesday. This marked Costa’s first visit to the Balkan nation, and his statements echoed support for the country’s ambitions to join the EU by 2028. Costa’s visit symbolized not only encouragement for Montenegro’s ongoing reforms but also a call to intensify the pace of changes essential for EU integration.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović, Costa praised the progress Montenegro has made, especially in implementing reforms necessary for EU membership. He emphasized the need for consistent policy coordination, particularly in areas related to the current European context, such as maintaining a stable and peaceful continent.
Reform Momentum Recognized By European Institutions
President Costa noted that the European Parliament had recently given strong recognition to Montenegro’s efforts toward EU integration. The acknowledgment came just a day before his visit, highlighting how Montenegro’s consistent progress has not gone unnoticed within EU institutions. He encouraged Montenegro’s leadership to stay focused and to avoid slowing down in their reform path.
“It is now crucial to maintain the approach, to stay focused on the goal and not to slow down progress,” Costa emphasized during the conference. His remarks were aimed at both reassuring and motivating Montenegrin officials to persevere in their efforts.
Referring to Montenegro’s publicly stated goal of becoming an EU member state by 2028, Costa described the objective as more than just a political slogan. According to him, it serves as a beacon that should guide the nation’s political and administrative energies toward substantive outcomes.
Montenegro’s Determination To Achieve 2028 EU Goal
President Milatović welcomed Costa’s visit as a powerful message of support not only for Montenegro but for the entire Western Balkans region. He reiterated his government’s firm commitment to fulfilling the EU’s integration benchmarks, underscoring the importance of collaboration between Montenegro and the broader European Union.
“This meeting is a continuation of the dialogue we are conducting,” Milatović said. He emphasized Montenegro’s pride in being seen as a leader in the EU integration process, pointing out that the nation is not only aiming for membership but striving to become the next official member state by 2028.
This timeline, though ambitious, reflects the optimism shared by Montenegrin officials and their belief in the nation’s capacity to meet all necessary accession criteria within the projected timeframe.
Western Balkans Stability and EU Role in the Region
Milatović used the opportunity to highlight the strategic importance of EU presence and leadership in the Western Balkans. The President indicated that Costa’s visit ahead of the upcoming summit in Tirana was timely and meaningful. This diplomatic event is expected to reinforce dialogue among regional leaders and enhance cooperation with EU institutions.
By situating Montenegro’s EU ambitions within a broader regional context, Milatović pointed to the interconnected nature of European security, economic progress, and political stability. The summit in Tirana is viewed as another platform for reinforcing the EU’s vision for a stable and integrated Western Balkans.
Montenegro, as one of the frontrunners in the region, continues to support EU initiatives that promote democratic governance, human rights, and adherence to the rule of law.
Alignment With EU Foreign Policy and Ukraine Conflict
Another key message from Milatović was the clear affirmation of Montenegro’s alignment with EU foreign policy. He specifically addressed the war in Ukraine, reaffirming that Montenegro had consistently supported the EU’s positions on the conflict since its outbreak.
“Since the beginning of the war, we have shown clear political support. We share the EU’s stance that Ukraine needs lasting peace,” Milatović noted. His statement underscored the importance of shared values and collective diplomacy as part of Montenegro’s journey toward full EU membership.
Costa, in turn, highlighted how Montenegro’s foreign policy behavior mirrors the EU’s expectations for its member states. In situations of geopolitical crisis, solidarity and common positions are viewed as essential components of European unity.
Bridging Domestic Reforms With EU Expectations
Montenegro’s EU aspirations are built on a foundation of internal reforms aimed at modernizing institutions, enhancing judicial transparency, and improving economic governance. These reforms are not just checklists but vital steps in aligning Montenegro’s domestic structure with EU standards.
During Costa’s visit, the importance of implementing reforms in a sustainable and consistent manner was emphasized repeatedly. For the European Council President, achieving membership is not simply a matter of rhetoric but of demonstrable progress across sectors.
Milatović also assured that the Montenegrin government remains committed to fighting corruption, ensuring the independence of judiciary bodies, and creating a robust environment for economic development. These themes have featured prominently in the EU’s evaluation reports over the years.
Broader EU Engagement Ahead Of Tirana Summit
As preparations continue for the summit in Tirana, Montenegro hopes to be at the center of discussions around deepening EU engagement in the Balkans. Costa’s visit is seen as a signal that such discussions will be substantive and grounded in recognition of Montenegro’s efforts.
While other countries in the region face varying degrees of challenges, Montenegro is positioning itself as a regional success story. This positioning comes not through words alone but through measurable efforts that are receiving international recognition.
Costa’s remarks reflect the importance of peer support and regional partnerships in the journey toward European integration. Montenegro, through consistent engagement, hopes to not only secure its place in the EU but also to serve as an example of successful transformation.
The Road Ahead For Montenegro’s EU Integration
With 2028 drawing closer, Montenegro finds itself at a critical juncture. The combination of high-level visits, European recognition, and internal determination creates an environment conducive to transformative change.
However, both Costa and Milatović acknowledged that the road ahead will not be without obstacles. Whether in the form of domestic political challenges or external geopolitical developments, Montenegro will need to maintain both strategic focus and broad consensus.
Milatović’s emphasis on dialogue, reform, and alignment with European values demonstrates a pragmatic approach to nation-building. Meanwhile, Costa’s support adds a diplomatic and symbolic layer that may help Montenegro maintain its current pace.
As the EU prepares for a new wave of enlargement, Montenegro’s story could serve as a blueprint for how reform, diplomacy, and regional cooperation can pave the way for integration. For now, the country remains on a promising trajectory, buoyed by commitment at home and support from abroad.
A European Future Within Reach
Montenegro’s EU path is clearer than ever, with 2028 serving as a motivational goalpost for both its citizens and its leaders. While challenges remain, the visit by European Council President Antonio Costa has added weight to the country’s aspirations.
With continued reforms, strong diplomatic ties, and regional cooperation, Montenegro may well achieve its goal of becoming the next EU member. The journey is not only about joining a political union but about affirming a commitment to the values and principles that define modern Europe.
As events unfold and summits like the one in Tirana shape future dialogue, Montenegro stands ready—hopeful, prepared, and aligned with the European dream.
