Montenegro can be accepted in the EU in 2028

European Council President Antonio Costa said on Wednesday in Podgorica that the expansion of the European Union is a strategic and key investment for stability, peace and prosperity, and that Montenegro could become a member of the bloc by 2028.

Montenegrin President Jakov Millatovic said Costa is visiting the Balkan country in a crucial time for Podgorica’s goals to become part of the EU.

« Your arrival confirms that Montenegro’s European perspective remains high on the EU agenda. In these challenging times, enlargement policy can be crucial. We can be light at the end of the tunnel and confirmation that the enlargement process is alive, » Millatovic said.

Montenegro, as he stated, wants to be an example of a successful European history.

Montenegro launched membership talks in June 2012, and has since opened all negotiation chapters and has temporarily closed three. After years of stagnation, this country resumed negotiations last June and is now working on their closure.

Costa described Montenegro’s progress on his way to the EU as « impressive ».

« The slogan ’28 until 2028 ′ is great, but it would be better if it were to be achieved earlier, » he said, adding that Montenegro « could become the 28th member and a leader in European integration of the region. »