Addressing the Parliament of Montenegro, Marta Kos, the European Union’s Commissioner for Enlargement, delivered a speech about the nation’s future in the EU. Her message centered on hope, opportunity, and the shared vision of a united Europe, emphasizing Montenegro’s historic chance to become the next member of the European Union.

Kos described the current geopolitical context as a defining moment for Europe, reminiscent of Simone Veil’s declaration in 1979 that peace, freedom, and prosperity depend on European unity. “What was true in her time is even more true today,” Kos noted, highlighting global challenges such as conflict and political blackmail that demand collective European strength.

“A window of opportunity has opened,” Kos stated, adding, “For the first time in a decade, we have a realistic chance to see our Union grow during this Commission’s mandate. Montenegro has the historic opportunity to lead this expansion.”

Praising Montenegro’s progress, Kos called the country a “success story” in EU enlargement. She lauded its alignment with EU foreign and security policy and its significant strides in the accession process, including the closing of six negotiation chapters – three during her tenure as Commissioner.

“This achievement is the result of your government, parliamentarians, civil servants, civil society, and media. It’s a manifestation of your reforms and an investment in our common future,” Kos said.

Kos urged Montenegro’s leaders to foster unity, both within Parliament and across society, to accelerate reforms. She cited Slovenia’s and Croatia’s bipartisan approach during their accession processes as examples to emulate.

“The Parliament must be the place where divergent views are channeled into common solutions,” she stressed, adding, “Take the accession process beyond Podgorica. Engage every citizen — workers, students, and entrepreneurs — to ensure they understand the benefits of EU membership.”

Kos also called on Montenegro to actively advocate for its EU membership within the bloc, urging leaders to meet counterparts in EU institutions and member states. “Help me explain to EU citizens that a bigger Union is a stronger Union,” she implored, emphasizing Montenegro’s contributions to European security, trade, and cultural diversity.

Kos acknowledged the challenges of the EU accession process, describing it as a “steep and challenging path.” However, she assured Montenegro of her personal commitment to the country’s progress. “If you deliver, I will match your efforts,” she vowed.

She concluded with a symbolic promise: “When Montenegro closes all the chapters, I will celebrate by climbing Bobotov Kuk. But before that, we have a metaphorical mountain to climb together.”

Reflecting on her personal journey, Kos shared her dream of a Western Balkans fully integrated into the EU, with borders replaced by dialogue and cooperation. “The EU is still a peace project,” she said, envisioning a future where Montenegro’s cultural richness strengthens a united Europe.

Kos’s address was met with widespread praise, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to Montenegro’s membership journey and offering a roadmap for the country to achieve its European aspirations.

Marta Kos, the European Union Commissioner for Enlargement, visited Podgorica as part of a broader effort to advance Montenegro’s EU accession process and reinforce the EU’s commitment to enlargement in the Western Balkans. The visit comes at a critical juncture, with Montenegro seen as a frontrunner in joining the European Union, thanks to its progress in aligning with EU policies and closing negotiation chapters.