A senior U.S. official visited Montenegro on Monday to express support for the small Balkan nation's aspirations to join the European Union. During a press conference in the capital Podgorica, the official emphasized Montenegro's strategic goal of becoming a full EU member.
The official highlighted Montenegro's progress in the EU accession process, positioning it as a strong candidate for membership. The country's commitment to European integration was underscored, particularly in light of geopolitical developments following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Montenegro's decision to join NATO in 2017 was noted as a significant step towards aligning with Western values and interests. The current Prime Minister's dedication to advancing Montenegro's EU bid after a period of political deadlock was commended.
Despite internal divisions between pro-Western factions and those advocating for closer ties with Serbia and Russia, efforts to push forward with EU-requested reforms have gained momentum. The U.S. official emphasized Montenegro's positive track record within NATO as a precursor to its potential EU membership.
Additionally, the official's recent visit to Kosovo aimed to facilitate dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, crucial for their EU accession prospects. Brussels has cautioned both parties that unresolved disputes could impede their path to membership.
Western officials are actively engaged in resolving Balkan conflicts to prevent external interference, particularly from Russia. The focus on stabilizing the region underscores the importance of integrating Western Balkan countries into Euro-Atlantic structures.
