Montenegro temporarily closes two chapters on the path to the EU

(Patria) - Montenegro today temporarily closed two more chapters in the accession negotiations for membership in the European Union at an intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg, where the country was represented by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić.

These are the temporary closures of Chapter 2 – Freedom of Movement for Workers and Chapter 28, which relates to consumer protection and health.

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos stated at a press conference that the European Commission wants the focus to be on strengthening the rule of law and institutions, which goes beyond party frameworks.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić called today "Mega Monday."

"We are ready to cross the finish line with the same goal," Spajić emphasized, pointing out that the number of temporarily closed chapters has reached nearly half.

"Montenegro is not late and does not improvise. We keep our word and deliver results. By the end of the year, we will close all chapters," said the Montenegrin Prime Minister.

Montenegro is the furthest along in the accession process of all candidates. So far, it has closed 14 negotiating chapters, and by the end of the year it plans to close all remaining ones.

Commissioner Kos, who visited Ireland last week, a country that takes over the six-month EU presidency on July 1, confirmed that there is a will for Montenegro to conclude accession negotiations during the Irish presidency.