Strasbourg, (MINA) – Montenegro’s EU accession will be a joint success and proof that the reforms pay off and that shared European future remains open to those who share the same values, Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic said in his address to the members of the European Parliament (EP) in Strasbourg.

 

Milatovic said that 20 years after the restoration of independence, Montenegro stands at the doors of the EU.

 

“This is a historic moment for my country, but also a crucial moment for the enlargement policy, as the last country joined the EU almost 15 years ago, while in the meantime one country left the Union” Milatovic said.

 

Therefore, as he added, this moment is an opportunity for Europe to demonstrate that reforms, democratic development and strategic consistency hold a deserved place in the European family.

 

According to Milatovic, the enlargement is an investment in stability and security of the European continent.

 

He stated that in many ways, Montenegro is already in many ways strategically aligned with the EU.

 

“Montenegro has already demonstrated that we know where we belong. It has shown that we understand the responsibilities that the European future entails. It has proven its strategic reliability, institutional seriousness and support of its citizens for EU membership”, added Milatovic.

 

He said that the state still has work to do.

 

"We know that. Strengthening the rule of law, independent institutions and building even efficient public administration, while at the same time focusing on our economic convergence with the EU, remain our key tasks”, said Milatovic.

 

He said that Montenegro enters the final phase with eyes widely open, with a clear awareness of its responsibilities and with the determination to bring that mission to an end.

 

Milatovic expressed belief that this EP convocation will hold a special place in the history of European enlargement.

 

“The last time the EP ratified an accession treaty of a forthcoming member state was in December 2011, almost 15 years ago. I genuinely hope that during your mandate you will do the same in the case of Montenegro”, said Milatovic.

 

He said that Montenegro accession in the EU “will be our joint victory”, and added that Montenegro is ready.

 

“Montenegro is ready to assume the responsibilities of a member state. We are ready to contribute to European policies. We are ready to bind our future to the common European future. We are ready to be the next member of the European Union”, said Milatovic.