EUFOR Commander visits Bosnia and Herzegovina as Montenegro targets 2026 EU talks conclusion

EUFOR Commander Major General Mauricio Fronda visited Prijedor and Kozarska Dubica in Bosnia and Herzegovina to meet with local authorities. The discussions focused on local community issues, the broader security environment, and the importance of maintaining open communication channels between EUFOR and local institutions to build trust and ensure regional stability.

In Trieste, Montenegrin Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović participated in the Southeast Europe Observatory Annual Forum. Speaking alongside Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, Ibrahimović stated that Montenegro aims to conclude EU accession negotiations by the end of 2026, with membership targeted for 2028. He emphasized that Montenegro is ready to fulfill its obligations and urged the EU to be equally prepared to admit new members based on merit.

Antonio Tajani expressed support for Montenegro’s EU candidacy, noting that accelerating the enlargement process is vital for European security. He highlighted the strong connection between Italy and Montenegro, reinforced by their NATO membership and existing infrastructure like the underwater power cable inaugurated in Kotor.