Podgorica, (MINA) – Montenegro has never been closer to becoming an EU member state, and must not allow any deviation from the European path, said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimovic.

In an interview with the MINA News Agency, Ibrahimovic stated that the Ministry closely monitors geopolitical developments, expressing belief that they would support Montenegro’s ambition to become an EU member by 2028.

“A strong and unified EU, with a clear vision and an active geopolitical role, is essential in the world in the current circumstances”, said Ibrahimovic.

Both the EU and Montenegro, according to him, must firmly uphold the values ​​on which the Union is founded, adding that Montenegro is recognized as the frontrunner in the integration process and the most advanced country in accession negotiations.

Ibrahimovic said that during the meetings at the Munich Security Conference, as well as meeting of the Western Balkans leaders, Montenegro’s visible progress was reaffirmed, as well as that with the effective implementation of reforms, it has a real chance of becoming the next member of the EU by 2028.

When asked about changes in the visa regime for third countries, Ibrahimovic responded that Montenegro, in the context of further progress on the European path, remains committed to gradual harmonization of visa policy with the EU.

“We will gradually phase out the visa-free regime, bearing in mind the fact that certain countries are recognized as significant source markets and play a crucial role in the development of tourism, investments and overall economic activity in Montenegro”, said Ibrahimovic.

Asked why the Government withdrew Montenegro’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, he explained that the decision was made after a careful analysis of the current situation and strategic foreign policy priorities.

Ibrahimovic argues that it is of key importance to direct all national resources and capacities towards implementation of internal reforms, in order to join the EU and meet the upcoming international obligations.

Speaking about Montenegro’s ties with Croatia, Ibrahimovic recalled that, over the past few months, he had met several times with his Croatian colleague Gordan Grlic Radman.

“The key message from these meetings, as well as the message my Croatian colleague conveyed to the public, is that Montenegro can count on Croatia’s full support for further EU integration and that Croatia wants to see Montenegro as the next member of the EU”, said Ibrahimovic.

When asked about the progress of ambassadorial appointments and the expected timeline for filling the diplomatic-consular network, Ibrahimovic said that since he took office, filling the diplomatic network has been among his priorities. “Due to the specific and internal nature of the appointment process, I cannot talk about the specific date for the completion of the ongoing procedures”, said Ibrahimovic.