Montenegro's parliament role highlighted as EU appoints Western Balkans reconciliation adviser

Montenegrin parliamentary speaker Boban Stanišić met with EU enlargement commissioner Gert Jan Kopman in Brussels, emphasizing that a proactive parliament is essential for concluding accession negotiations and strengthening institutional capacity. The European Commission reaffirmed its full support for Montenegro’s reform process and urged consistent implementation of EU‑mandated obligations.

In a related move, the European Commission named Slovenian diplomat Marko Makovec as chief adviser for reconciliation and normalization of the Western Balkans within the Directorate‑General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood. Makovec, who has over three decades of experience in EU enlargement, regional stability and diplomatic affairs, will help candidate countries meet accession criteria, foster political dialogue and promote regional integration. His appointment underscores the EU’s continued commitment to the Western Balkans’ path toward EU membership.