Kos: Montenegro can become a model for other Western Balkan countries

“If you behave like a good Member State, respect the rules, democracy and the values of the European Union, you will not even notice that these safeguard clauses exist. If Montenegro breaks those rules, these safeguards would be used, and it would receive less funding, or that funding could be withheld altogether, or its voting rights could be completely suspended,” European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said during a lecture at the Faculty of Political Science (FPN).

Answering questions during the lecture at the Faculty of Political Science, Marta Kos stressed that European partners clearly recognise the political situation in Montenegro. She added that without concrete results, Brussels’ willingness to pursue enlargement would not be enough for Montenegro to advance on its European path.

Kos highlighted the importance of good-neighbourly relations in the final stage of the accession process and welcomed progress in resolving some outstanding issues with Croatia, including the Government’s decision to rename the swimming pool in Kotor and approve a memorial plaque in Morinj.

According to Kos, some issues require further efforts by both countries.

“If the two countries reach an agreement and agree on their border, this is, of course, not something that can be resolved in the short term. The two countries can resolve it at a later stage, and this is possible, but the key issue is what the two countries agree on,” she stressed.

Kos said that Montenegro would contribute to the European Union’s security framework and become a model for other Western Balkan countries.

She also noted that the EU is preparing for a new Member State by including safeguard clauses in the accession treaty, recalling her earlier reference to a “Trojan horse”. She maintained that these safeguards should not concern Montenegro.

She emphasised that the interests of individual political parties must not take precedence over Montenegro’s European future, adding that the final stage of the accession process requires unity between the Government and the opposition.

“Political victories last until the next election, whereas EU membership brings lasting benefits to future generations,” Kos concluded.

Source: ETV Portal