Montenegro Parliament Moves Forward with EU Integration Resolution

The Parliamentary Committee for European Integration in Montenegro has formally announced a proposed resolution aimed at advancing the country’s integration into the European Union (EU). This resolution is set to be discussed during the first parliamentary session in March 2024, as confirmed by Ivan Vuković, the committee chair and member of the opposition Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS).

The initiative, which Vuković first introduced on September 26, focuses on finalizing all negotiation chapters by the end of 2024. It emphasizes close cooperation among the Parliament, the Government, and the President of Montenegro, as well as the involvement of civil society and media throughout the integration process. After a series of closed meetings, Vuković presented the agreed-upon version of the document, which has garnered support from various parliamentary leaders, including Boris Pejović of the Europe Now Movement (PES) and Nikola Čamaj from the Albanian Forum.

Vuković highlighted the importance of unity in achieving Montenegro’s historical goal of EU membership, drawing on a quote from former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln about the necessity of cohesion. He stated, “Our house, Montenegro, divided against itself cannot become part of Europe.”

The resolution underscores that becoming a full EU member is the most significant strategic task for Montenegro, essential for enhancing independence, security, and economic prosperity for all citizens. The committee expressed confidence in closing the remaining negotiation chapters by the end of 2026, declaring a commitment to prioritizing the EU accession process.

Vuković noted that the proposal reflects a collective effort, emphasizing political responsibility and dedication to the European integration process. He indicated that it would be submitted to parliamentary procedures in accordance with Article 93, Paragraph 1 of the Montenegrin Constitution, which grants the right to propose laws and acts to both the Government and MPs.

In his remarks, Vuković expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the committee for their support and hard work towards Montenegro’s European perspective. He concluded by stating, “What unites us may not always be obvious, but it is greater and more important than what divides us.”

The Deputy Chair of the Committee, Jovan Subotić, remarked on the enthusiastic collaboration among committee members and the secretariat, hoping that this initiative will serve as a cornerstone for future unity among representatives working towards a better life for Montenegrins.

The announcement follows recent positive developments from Brussels, where Montenegro received confirmation that it could close five negotiation chapters this year. Vuković lauded this progress as a significant step in the right direction at a crucial time for the country’s EU integration efforts.

When questioned about Hungary’s refusal to support the European Council’s conclusions regarding EU expansion, Vuković acknowledged that some reactions were expected, particularly given Hungary’s distinct perspective on the situation in Ukraine. He reassured that Hungary’s stance does not reflect on Montenegro, citing that the country has long recognized Montenegro as a leader in the EU integration process.

He emphasized the importance of a segment of the conclusions regarding the establishment of an ad hoc commission as a precursor to preparing the accession agreement for Montenegro. Vuković noted that if this were to occur, Montenegro would be nearing EU membership.

The proposed resolution outlines nine key points, affirming that Montenegro’s EU membership is the primary strategic goal of state policy. It includes commitments to enhance parliamentary diplomacy, strengthen cooperation with civil society organizations, and promote good-neighborly relations within the region.

Montenegro’s Parliament is poised to play a crucial role in realizing these objectives, with the resolution serving as a testament to the bipartisan effort to secure a better future for the nation within a united Europe.