Negotiations on EU Membership Stall as France Blocks Key Chapters

Political analyst Danilo Kalezić expressed skepticism regarding the potential for rapid progress in the European integration negotiations for Montenegro. He emphasized that resolving complex issues, such as the blockage of negotiations, cannot realistically occur within a single day. His comments come in the wake of stalled talks in Brussels, where the expected closure of five negotiation chapters was reduced to just three.

The negotiations for Montenegro’s accession to the European Union hit a snag on Friday when it became clear that instead of the anticipated five chapters, only three would be finalized. The chapters that are set to be closed include Chapter 3 (Right of Establishment and Freedom to Provide Services), Chapter 4 (Free Movement of Capital), and Chapter 6 (Company Law). The setback is attributed to a blockade by France, specifically against the closure of Chapter 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development) and Chapter 13 (Fisheries).

France’s actions reflect deeper concerns rather than straightforward objections to Montenegro’s progress. Issues have been raised regarding the absence of implementation of EU recommendations from the previous year, as well as poor communication between the Montenegrin Ministry of Agriculture and its French counterpart over the past three years. Vladimir Joković, Montenegro’s Minister of Agriculture, sought to counter claims of responsibility for this setback, stating that France, like the other 26 EU member states, had previously given a positive opinion on the matter.

Joković insisted that the narratives suggesting Montenegro’s shortcomings in the negotiations were incorrect, maintaining that they had achieved significant results and completed all necessary tasks. Despite this assertion, the French Ministry’s position indicated a broader dissatisfaction that transcends individual ministerial performance.

In light of intensive diplomatic efforts from Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and his team, including communications with Emmanuel Macron, the situation took a turn. Reports emerged indicating that all five chapters could potentially be closed, marking a significant step forward for Montenegro’s EU aspirations.

Kalezić commented on the current government’s approach, suggesting that while they adeptly simulate reform efforts on a technical level, substantial advancements remain elusive. He asserted that when critical decision-making is required, the government tends to retreat rather than take decisive action.

The analyst highlighted that during such integration processes, if a EU member state has concerns about specific chapters, it typically provides constructive feedback aimed at improvement. In this instance, however, the chapters appear to be serving as a means for France to convey broader dissatisfaction with Montenegro’s internal affairs.

The complexities of Montenegro’s relations with both France and Serbia were also examined. Kalezić argued against attributing excessive influence to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić in the context of blocking negotiations, noting that the dynamics are significantly more intricate.

He pointed out that the underlying issues stem from strategic interests of French companies in Montenegro, particularly regarding infrastructure and military projects. Kalezić emphasized the need for transparency in how Montenegro manages its natural resources, suggesting that the current discourse may reflect broader geopolitical considerations.

Since gaining candidate status in December 2010 and opening negotiations in June 2012, Montenegro has progressed through the EU accession process, having opened all 33 negotiation chapters. The upcoming conference in Brussels is crucial, as Montenegro aims to meet the conditions necessary to initiate the drafting of its accession treaty with the EU.

As it stands, the closure of Chapter 31 (Foreign, Security, and Defence Policy) remains pending, awaiting a decision that has been delayed due to requests from Croatia. The future of Montenegro’s EU negotiations hangs in a delicate balance, influenced by both internal governance and external diplomatic relations.