Kalas: I Welcome the Agreement Reached Between the Opposition and the Government

AUTHOR: M.J. GDNUS

The Prime Minister of Montenegro, Milojko Spajić, announced that by the end of Poland's presidency, additional chapters will be closed to ensure that Montenegro remains first among the candidates.

After a meeting with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, Kaja Kalas, Spajić thanked for the funds allocated to the defense sector, which, as he stated, will be used for both NATO and military projects as Montenegro's future EU member.

Kalas, at a press conference at Villa Gorica, welcomed the agreement reached with the opposition.

"I praise your commitment to reforms, as they are necessary. There are no shortcuts, and reforms are good for everyone. I am particularly glad that Parliament is now working in full capacity and that Johan Satler helped in reaching a compromise between the parties," Kalas added.

She also expressed hope that both economic and social policies would be adapted accordingly.

"Today, cooperation in defense matters is particularly important, specifically the six million euros intended for equipment," she added.

Kalas praised Montenegro's resolution on the integrity of Ukrainian territory.

"It is essential that everyone has equal opportunities in accordance with Montenegrin legislation," she emphasized.

The Prime Minister reminded that consultations with the opposition regarding the agreement with the UAE had started and added that the responses from the opposition were positive.

"Economic interest is important," he stressed.

"The UAE has similar cooperation with EU countries, Albania, and others in the region. We have informed our European partners about the agreements," he said.

Kalas mentioned that Montenegro’s development is in the interest of the European Union and that investments should comply with local laws.

"It is important that Montenegro continues on the EU path, and our progress depends on each member state. Every member must support this. Currently, there is no consensus on Chapter 31, although we are working hard. I told Spajić that developing good relations with neighboring countries helps on this path. I hope that, on our part, we can finish everything needed to close chapters," she added.

When asked about foreign interference during the 2021 elections in Nikšić, as noted by the Council of Europe, Kalas said it has been increasing in elections, particularly through social media.

"We in the EU help to uncover it, but it is hard to completely avoid such interference," she concluded.

Therefore, she emphasized the importance of observer missions to ensure that elections are fair and secure.

"We must further develop the rules for electoral monitoring. We are working a lot on sharing best practices," Kalas said.