Under the auspices of the project “Support to North Macedonia in the EU Integration Process”, implemented by UNOPS North Macedonia and supported by the Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro, a four-day study visit of representatives from North Macedonia’s Ministry of European Affairs and its negotiation structure to Montenegro was successfully concluded. The focus of the visit was the exchange of experiences and best practices, strengthening regional cooperation in the EU integration process, with particular emphasis on Cluster 2.
Participants had the opportunity to learn about the organization and methodology of the Montenegrin negotiation structure, achievements within the relevant chapters, as well as the challenges Montenegro faces on its European path.
Chief Negotiator of Montenegro, Predrag Zenović, emphasized that this study visit was more than just an exchange of knowledge—it was a confirmation of the region’s shared European vision. He highlighted that Montenegro remains a leader in the EU integration process, achieving significant progress in 2024, including a positive IBAR, the closing of three negotiation chapters, and continued intensive legislative and institutional reforms.
“Our European ambitions are not only national priorities but shared aspirations of the entire region striving for peace, stability, and prosperity. The path to EU membership demands deep reforms, strategic patience, and clear political will, but I am confident that together we have the strength to overcome the challenges and move forward,” Zenović stated.
A particular focus of his address was on progress within Cluster 2, where he outlined concrete advances in chapters related to the free movement of goods, services, capital, company law, intellectual property, financial services, competition, and consumer protection. He also noted that in November 2024, Montenegro became the first Western Balkan country to join the SEPA zone, further confirming progress in financial alignment with the EU.
Speaking on the fight against corruption as a cross-cutting issue that underpins all EU policies, Zenović stressed the importance of the new enlargement methodology.
“When it comes to anti-corruption measures, the European Commission, in line with the new enlargement methodology, has introduced in its reports a mandatory review of anti-corruption measures as a cross-sectoral issue that also applies to other chapters of the EU acquis, not just to the area of the rule of law. This mechanism allows for a more precise and objective assessment of progress, ensuring that reforms are not merely theoretical but are implemented consistently with concrete and sustainable results. Montenegro is currently preparing information for the first reporting in this format, covering Chapters 1, 4, 9, and 28,” the Chief Negotiator explained.
Finally, Zenović emphasized the importance of joint action and stressed that the accession process must not be a competition but a joint endeavor. Montenegro remains determined to share its experience and be a partner that encourages and supports the European path of the entire region.
State Secretary at the Ministry of European Affairs, Biljana Papović, expressed her contentment that Montenegro hosted this important initiative.
“I am pleased that Montenegro is recognized as a partner and a good practice example in the region. Our goal is to become a full EU member by 2028, and visits like this are an opportunity to strengthen our joint capacities and enhance the reform process through regional cooperation. Your presence here confirms that, as the most advanced candidate country in the process, we are recognized as a partner and a relevant interlocutor on topics at the core of the accession process. I believe I speak for all of us when I say that the economy is of vital importance for the progress of each country, as well as the Union as a whole,” stated Papović.
She also emphasized the importance of previous expert engagements through UNOPS projects and praised the initiative that, as she noted, promotes soft skills and practical knowledge essential for successfully managing the negotiation process.
In conclusion, she stated that this kind of knowledge and experience exchange is key to building an efficient and professional public administration, as well as to continuing the reforms that lead to full membership in the European Union.