BRUSSELS – The Council welcomes the continued progress in the accession negotiations with Montenegro. The Council takes positive note of improvements in the legal framework in the area of the rule of law and work on the establishment of new institutions. It is now essential for the overall pace of the negotiating process that the entire rule of law system deliver concrete results, in particular to establish a solid track record in the fight against corruption and organised crime. Further efforts are needed to guarantee the freedom of expression and of the media, to pursue the public administration reform, to strengthen the independence of institutions, as well as to improve the business environment.
The Council calls upon all political parties to show responsibility and re-engage in a constructive dialogue, with parliament being the key forum for political debate. Moreover, ensuring the full implementation of the new electoral legislation will be important.
The Council notes with satisfaction Montenegro’s positive role in further developing regional cooperation and advancing good neighbourly relations. Moreover, the Council commends Montenegro for its cooperation on foreign policy issues, and in particular its full alignment with the EU’s foreign policy positions.
The Council looks forward to the next meeting of the Accession Conference on 21 December 2015, with a view to the opening of further negotiating chapters