PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR FOREIGN AND EUROPEAN AFFAIRS Discussions on Montenegro’s progress towards European Union membership

Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Chris Fearne reaffirmed Malta's support for Montenegro's accession to the European Union during meetings in Podgorica with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović.

Minister Fearne welcomed the progress Montenegro has made in its accession negotiations and stressed that the country's achievements should be recognised through a credible, fair and merit-based enlargement process. Malta supports Montenegro's objective of becoming a full member of the European Union, with the same rights and obligations as every other Member State.

He underlined that Montenegro must retain ownership of its European path, while the European Union must respond clearly when candidate countries undertake the required reforms and meet their commitments.

The meetings formed part of an official visit aimed at deepening relations between Malta and Montenegro and discussing the next steps in their bilateral cooperation.

Minister Fearne reiterated his commitment to strengthening ties among Mediterranean countries, noting that closer cooperation benefits not only the countries concerned but also the wider European region. Malta and Montenegro share an interest in a stable and prosperous Mediterranean and Western Balkans, two regions whose security and economic development are closely connected.

Malta looks forward to working more closely with Montenegro in tourism and healthcare. The two sides discussed how cooperation in these fields could be developed, alongside existing links in education, diplomatic training and maritime affairs. Both sides agreed that the bilateral relationship should continue to develop in parallel with Montenegro's progress towards EU membership.

Minister Fearne also confirmed Malta's readiness to share the experience it has gained through EU membership and to consider further technical assistance in areas identified together with the Montenegrin authorities.

Minister Fearne thanked Prime Minister Spajić and Minister Ibrahimović for their hospitality and for the open and constructive discussions. He reiterated Malta's commitment to maintaining close political dialogue and building a stronger, practical partnership with Montenegro.

Photos: MFEA