Ibrahimović – Tajani: Italy strongly supports Montenegro in the final stages of the European journey

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro, Ervin Ibrahimović, met in Trieste with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Antonio Tajani. They discussed the conclusion of negotiations with the EU, bilateral relations, and the stability of the Western Balkans. Ibrahimović thanked Italy for its continuous political and expert support to Montenegro, especially in the area of rule of law, as well as for Minister Tajani's personal engagement in maintaining enlargement high on the European agenda. 'We want to complete the process based on results and with full respect for the interests of the European Union,' Tajani confirmed Italy's strong support for Montenegro's European path, assessing that Montenegro is ready for EU membership and emphasizing the need to accelerate the enlargement process to preserve momentum in the Western Balkans. He stated that Montenegro's EU membership would significantly contribute to strengthening European security, highlighting the strong ties between the two countries, including NATO membership and connectivity through the Adriatic. The upcoming Berlin Process ministerial meeting was particularly discussed. Ibrahimović expressed satisfaction that Tajani will participate in the meeting and expects Italy to be represented at the Leaders' Summit on the 22nd. The meeting confirmed a shared interest in continuing close cooperation between Montenegro and Italy in bilateral and multilateral formats, with a special focus on Montenegro's European integration.