© Getty Images The European Union might be considered “the ultimate endeavor for global harmony,” according to Prime Minister Milojko Spajic.
The leader of the Montenegrin administration stated that his nation is aiming to integrate into the European Union not primarily for typical “economic” motives, but rather for matters of safeguarding, as reported by Politico.
“Previously, EU membership was primarily viewed as a means to gain financial backing for infrastructure projects,” Spajic mentioned at the European Pulse Forum held in Barcelona. “However, that perception has shifted.”
According to his statement, Montenegro, having formally initiated discussions for EU entry in 2012 and currently holding candidate status, is enthusiastic about joining the alliance, especially because of its function as a “project promoting peace.”
“Our top priorities are, firstly, the shared principles that unite us. Secondly, it is a unified market: encompassing half a billion individuals in contrast to Montenegro’s half a million residents,” Spajic explained. “And thirdly, it’s a commitment to peace, potentially the most vital peace initiative remaining globally. This underscores the significance of the European Union.”
Throughout Europe, nations external to the EU, spanning from Iceland to Moldova, are progressively signaling their intent to become part of the union due to security considerations, beyond mere trade or financial advantages. This arises amidst Russia’s extensive incursion into Ukraine in 2022 and remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump concerning the hypothetical acquisition of Greenland.
Montenegro has already finalized 14 out of the 33 negotiation chapters — the essential prerequisites for EU admittance. Concurrently, certain member states harbor doubts regarding further expansion and suggest that the internal decision-making processes of the bloc necessitate prior reformation.
Spajic conveyed that Podgorica, having established an ambitious objective of EU integration by 2028, is already “nearly entirely prepared” to conclude the negotiation stages and expresses “strong assurance” in achieving this milestone by the close of 2026.
“Certain reforms we are currently enacting are entirely unprecedented,” he stated.
As per the Prime Minister, Montenegro’s joining the EU will foster optimism among the Western Balkan nations while concurrently aiding in the preservation of the enlargement strategy as a highly potent instrument of the European Union.