WORLD NEWS FOR MONTENEGRO DIASPORA
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AUTHOR:M.J. GDNUS
The support of some members of the ruling coalition in Montenegro for the president of the Bosnian entity Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, after last week's court ruling could be considered interference in the internal affairs of another state, warned MEP Tonino Picula. Commenting on today's presentation by the European Parliament rapporteur for Montenegro, Marijan Šarec, Picula pointed out that Montenegro has made significant progress towards the EU, but that it still faces major challenges, especially in the area of the rule of law.
"We are satisfied with the draft report, which we consider very good, and we understand that there are limitations in its initial version. Therefore, some issues that are not covered will be covered by amendments, which our group also plans to submit," Picula said.
He stressed that he recognizes Montenegro's strong commitment to European integration and gives full support to the country's future membership in the EU, warning that Montenegro's rapid progress towards membership requires full respect for the Constitution and constitutional principles.
"We emphasize that a constructive dialogue among all political actors is crucial for Montenegro's European integration process. We are aware that Montenegro's goal of becoming a full member of the EU by 2028 is very ambitious and requires an accelerated reform process. While comprehensive reforms and a strong commitment to European values are needed, while recognizing the challenges, we encourage Montenegro to maintain momentum, as the country's membership would benefit both the region and the wider European community," Picula emphasized.
He believes that Montenegro's accession to the EU would also revitalize the enlargement process and further bring the Western Balkans closer to Europe, emphasizing the economic and trade benefits of European integration, as well as the increased stability that such a step would bring to the region.
"The latest report of the European Commission recognized Montenegro's progress, but also highlighted certain shortcomings, especially in the area of the rule of law. Commenting on the recent controversies surrounding the Constitutional Court, we acknowledge that the appointment of judges in 2023 was a significant step forward. However, we express concern about the latest developments regarding the retirement of a Constitutional Court judge, which has sparked much criticism. We support the inclusion of the Venice Commission as an advisory body in resolving this issue,” said Picula.
He expressed hope that the opposition’s conditions for talks on returning to parliament can be resolved through a joint dialogue, as well as through a moratorium on key issues that delay European integration.
“We insist that Montenegro’s European path requires consistent respect for constitutional principles and constructive dialogue. Public opinion polls consistently show strong support among citizens for Montenegro’s EU membership, while all political parties advocate European integration, although political unity in practice remains a challenge,” Picula stressed.
He called on all political actors to work together to achieve this goal.
“We also commend initiatives aimed at strengthening political cooperation and consolidating unity between the ruling coalition and opposition parties. "This should be an important step towards overcoming political divisions and strengthening national cohesion. Montenegro confirms its commitment to finalizing European negotiations by 2026. However, we regret the support for Milorad Dodik by some members of the ruling coalition after last week's court ruling, which could be considered interference in the internal affairs of another state," Picula concluded.
