Montenegro aims to close EU accession talks by end‑2026

Deputy Prime Minister for European and Foreign Affairs Filip Ivanović said Montenegro will finish all accession negotiation chapters with the European Union by the end of 2026, following a roadmap agreed with the European Commission. He noted that the process is proceeding with satisfactory dynamics despite the usual caution from EU officials, and highlighted chapters 23 and 24 as the most demanding remaining items.

Ivanović added that once all chapters are closed, the Commission will reassess Montenegro’s rule‑of‑law reforms. He cited EU officials’ statements that 2028 is expected to be the year for admitting new members, and quoted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz saying Montenegro is ready for EU membership.