EU Expects Montenegro to Close Five Chapters by Year-End

Johan Satler, the head of the European Union delegation in Montenegro, announced that Brussels anticipates the country will close five negotiation chapters by the end of this year. In a recent interview with TV Vijesti, Satler emphasized the critical nature of the next 14 months for Montenegro, noting that the country must complete the demanding task of closing a total of 25 chapters in its EU accession process.

“Yesterday we celebrated, but today we must return to work,” Satler remarked. He highlighted that the focus will primarily be on chapters 23 and 24, which deal with the rule of law, particularly in terms of combating corruption and organized crime. The closing of these chapters is essential for Montenegro’s progress towards EU membership.

In addition to these key issues, the selection of judicial officials remains a priority. Satler expressed optimism about the political stability demonstrated by both the government and the opposition in supporting electoral reform laws. He also mentioned the upcoming appointments of judges to the Constitutional Court, members of the Prosecutorial Council, and the vice-governor of the Central Bank as steps that require similar unity.

Visa policy also emerged as a significant topic during the discussion. When asked about the Montenegrin government’s recent decision to impose visas on Turkish citizens, Satler commented on earlier missteps this year. He stated, “We had steps in the wrong direction at the beginning of the year, but that has been corrected in the past month when Montenegro removed four countries from its visa-free regime. Turkey was subsequently removed from that list.” He clarified that the EU does not intervene in individual cases regarding visa policies, emphasizing that it is up to Montenegro to make those decisions.

According to the latest report from the European Commission, Montenegro must legally resolve the appointment of the Director of the Public Broadcasting Service. Satler reiterated the EU’s aim to avoid excessively lengthy judicial procedures and called for these processes to be expedited. He stated that further actions would depend on the outcomes of judicial proceedings.

Another significant point raised by Marta Kos, a commissioner, involves the potential for new EU member states to be accepted on a trial basis to prevent the entry of “Russian Trojan horses” into the Union. When asked about the feasibility of this approach and whether it would apply to Montenegro, Satler did not think it would.

Looking ahead, Satler indicated that preparations for Montenegro’s accession agreement will soon be on the agenda for the European Council. He reassured that he does not foresee any limitations on Montenegro’s voting rights within the EU framework.

As Montenegro continues its journey toward EU membership, the next few months will be pivotal in determining its progress and adherence to the necessary reforms. The EU’s expectations signal a clear path forward, but successful implementation will depend heavily on the collaboration and determination of Montenegrin authorities.