The Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorčević, had separate meetings today in Brussels with the EU Special Representative for the Western Balkans, Miroslav Lajčak, and the Member of the European Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for Stabilization and Association, Vladimir Bilčik.
Minister Gorčević introduced the interlocutors to the Government’s plans aimed at fulfilling the recommendations from the European Commission Report, with a focus on reforms in the rule of law.
“This government is determined to speed up the negotiation process with the EU. We approach the implementation of all obligations responsibly, with a focus on the remaining tasks and challenges from Chapters 23 and 24. I believe that all political actors in Montenegro will demonstrate their commitment to dialogue and the rule of law, which will ensure credible results and faster progress towards membership,” she said.
The minister thanked for what has been done so far and pointed out the importance of continued EU support in the implementation of comprehensive reforms.
“It is very important for Montenegro that, at the moment when we intensify the implementation of reforms, we can count on additional support from the EC, through the Growth Plan instrument. Those funds will ensure that we implement reforms more efficiently and with better quality and build our society by the best European standards,” said Gorčević.
The EU’s special representative for the Western Balkans, Miroslav Lajčak, said that it is important for Montenegro to take advantage of the current moment and achieve measurable results, based on which it will speed up its path towards the EU.
“I believe that Montenegro, with a new pro-European Government, can make a key step forward on its European path. Years ago, you were a leader in the process of European integration. I expect you to speed up the pace and become the next member of the EU because that’s what your citizens want and deserve,” said Lajcak.
Member of the European Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for Stabilization and Association Vladimir Bilčik welcomed the formation of the Assembly and the Government, as well as the appointment of the seventh judge of the Constitutional Court.
He said that functional work and cooperation of all institutions are a prerequisite for credible reforms on the way to the EU.
“I am happy about the formation of democratic institutions after the parliamentary elections and I expect that you will now focus on the implementation of key reforms and continue to be a positive example in the policy of enlargement and the countries that will join the EU next.” On that way, count on our strong support,” said Bilchik.
