Montenegro closes two more EU chapters, Spajić signals readiness for final stage of integration

At an Intergovernmental Conference held in Brussels, Montenegro closed two more chapters in its negotiations with the European Union. This progress toward membership brings the total number of closed chapters to 23.

Montenegrin media report that chapters 1 and 12 were closed this week. They cover the free movement of goods and food safety, veterinary and plant health policies, respectively.

Following this development, 10 chapters remain to be closed by the end of the year. Under Brussels’ plan, the negotiating process is due to conclude by December 2026, with the accession treaty expected to be signed in June 2027.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić described the message sent today as proof that Montenegro is ready to enter the final stage of European integration.

He stressed that the country’s priorities remain unchanged: rule-of-law reforms, tackling organized crime and corruption, strengthening good neighborly relations and improving living standards.

Five chapters are scheduled to be closed in November 2026, including those covering energy, transport and taxation.

Meanwhile, chapters 23 and 24, considered the most difficult and covering the rule of law, justice and the fight against corruption, are expected to be closed in December 2026.

The Commission is expected to submit the draft final negotiating positions to the Council of the EU in mid-November.

The text of the Accession Treaty is expected to be ready in spring 2027. Following a vote in the European Parliament, the treaty is expected to be signed in June 2027.

The document will then need to be ratified by all 27 member states, as well as Montenegro itself. During the transitional period, Podgorica will have observer status in EU institutions.

However, Brussels stresses that this timetable remains indicative. It warns that any backsliding by Montenegro on reforms could lead to a delay in membership and the introduction of safeguard measures.

Speaking from Brussels, Irish Minister for European Affairs Thomas Byrne, who will take over the presidency of the Council of the EU, expressed his commitment to Montenegro closing all chapters by the end of the year. He also stressed that reforms must continue, particularly in the rule of law, institutional independence and the fight against organized crime.