“I am pleased to announce that next week, on 15 June, at the Intergovernmental Conference in Luxembourg, we expect the provisional closure of two more negotiation chapters: Chapter 2 – Free Movement of Workers and Chapter 28 – Consumer and Health Protection,” said Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević.
She added that this is the result of dedicated work by the Government and institutions, as well as intensive communication with Member States, which created the conditions for the two chapters—already technically ready for some time—to be formally and provisionally closed.
“The dynamics of negotiation chapter closure are proceeding according to plan. All reform activities are being finalised, and I am confident that by the end of the year we can close the remaining 19 negotiation chapters. It is also encouraging that this will not be the last set of chapters closed before the summer break,” Gorčević said.
She explained that the benefits of these two chapters for citizens are significant.
As she stated, the closure of Chapter 2 means stronger protection of labour rights in practice, more efficient supervision, and greater certainty that regulations are consistently implemented.
“This chapter brings our citizens the right to equal access to jobs in the EU without discrimination, the possibility of employment in Member States without additional administrative barriers, and the protection of pension, health and other social rights beyond the borders of Montenegro. For our economy, it enables easier access to skilled labour, a more flexible and competitive labour market, and more stable conditions for doing business with EU companies,” she said.
The Minister stated that the provisional closure of Chapter 28 will ensure greater protection of consumer rights and product safety for Montenegrin citizens. She added that reforms in this chapter establish clear public health standards, including disease prevention and control, thereby increasing citizens’ safety.
“We have worked hard over the past three years and the results of our work are now becoming visible through the impact they have on the quality of life of our citizens. These benefits will be even greater if, in this final phase, we join forces and if everyone does their part. That is why I want us, in the final stage of the negotiation process, to be united around a common goal – for Montenegro to become the 28th Member State of the EU by 2028,” Gorčević said.
The Minister added that the Government has completed its part of the job, but that successful finalisation requires synergy of all three branches of government, demonstrated through clear political will and determination to implement the remaining obligations, especially those related to the rule of law, in a timely and high-quality manner.
“The European Commission and Member States are on our side and provide us with unwavering support to complete the negotiation process by the end of the year, as confirmed at the Western Balkans – EU Summit held in Tivat,” she concluded.
MINISTRY OF EUROPEAN AFFAIRS