German Chancellor Friedrich Merts has stated that Montenegro could become the 28th member of the European Union in 2028.
elchi reports that he spoke at the Berlin Process summit in Milocer, Montenegro on Thursday, urging Western Balkan countries to accelerate reforms and strengthen regional cooperation.
Merts said at a joint press conference with Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić: “We believe this is realistic.”
The Chancellor, who opened the summit, noted progress in the EU enlargement process following the previous meeting in Tivat in June. According to him, European and regional leaders have succeeded in bringing the Western Balkans’ accession process back on a constructive track.
Merts also emphasized that phased integration into the European Union should depend on the actual results of reforms carried out in candidate countries. This approach, actively promoted by Germany and France, envisages the provision of certain membership benefits even before formal accession. These could include broader access to the EU’s single market, research and education programs, and participation in certain EU meetings without voting rights. However, these benefits could be revoked if the country abandons reforms.
“Let me be clear: phased integration must also be based on merit. The EU has done its part, but the reforms and political will must come from you,” Merts stated.
He called for closer cooperation among Western Balkan states, noting that economic integration will increase the region’s attractiveness to investors and help prepare for entry into the EU’s single market.
“You will only succeed in the European Union if you work together, and you are doing that. Eight million people in one market are much more attractive to investors than six small markets,” the Chancellor said.
Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić called EU enlargement a crucial condition for Europe’s security and unity. He also reaffirmed his support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that enlargement should play a role in reuniting the continent and bringing freedom, security, and new opportunities to Europeans currently outside the EU.
Commenting on efforts to end the war in Ukraine, Merts stressed that lasting peace is impossible without European involvement in negotiations.
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