Predrag Zenović is Montenegro’s Chief Negotiator with the European Union. In an interview with BalkanView, he expressed optimism that his country will become part of the Union by 2028.
BalkanView: Mr. Zenović, there’s a perception that your country’s EU aspirations are similar to those of North Macedonia. You began the negotiation process back in 2012. Where does Montenegro stand today?
Zenović: Montenegro today is clearly committed to its European path. There is political consensus, and the European Union is ready to confirm that its enlargement policy remains significant, demonstrating that the EU’s geopolitical strategy is alive and relevant. This dual perspective strongly indicates Montenegro’s future in the EU. I believe this is also the future of all Western Balkan states; this entire region sees the EU as a safe harbor for its future and its citizens.
BalkanView: Despite your optimism, there are forces in the region—and even within Montenegro—that oppose EU membership. How do you address these dynamics?
Zenović: Historically, this region has often been a stage for geopolitical powers to exert their influence—be it cultural, political, economic, or geopolitical. However, it has now become unequivocally clear, both to political elites and to the citizens of Montenegro, that the EU is the only viable path for our country. A modern state, based on republican values and the rule of law, with a free-market economy, cannot find a better framework than the EU. Moreover, Montenegro is a multicultural, multiethnic, and multiconfessional society that sees itself as part of the European family of nations. Challenges and conflicting interests do exist, but public opinion—around 80% support for EU membership—reinforces that the Western Balkans belong in the EU.
BalkanView: What are the reasons behind the delays in advancing Montenegro’s negotiations for full EU membership?
Zenović: EU accession negotiations have both a political and a technical dimension. The political dimension must not be overlooked—it’s crucial. Constant communication between Brussels and Podgorica is necessary to maintain trust and ensure that reforms are being implemented sincerely. Montenegro has faced ups and downs in this process, reflecting the existence—or absence—of a clear political will for EU integration. Currently, there is a broad political consensus in Montenegro that the EU is the number one foreign policy priority, and the necessary reforms form the basis of Montenegro’s societal transformation.
BalkanView: As Chief Negotiator, what has been achieved so far in negotiations, and what challenges remain?
Zenović: The new negotiating structure involves around 800 experts, including representatives of civil society and public administration. We faced setbacks in the past due to a lack of dialogue with Brussels, but with renewed communication—especially after the January intergovernmental conference, where Montenegro was warmly welcomed as a future EU member—we have received strong encouragement to intensify our efforts. Our current focus is on Chapters 23 and 24, related to the rule of law. These chapters are foundational and must be completed before progressing to others. With rigorous communication between the European Commission and Montenegro’s institutions, particularly the Ministries of Justice and Interior, we aim to meet these criteria successfully. Achieving this milestone, possibly by June, would mark a new phase in our negotiations, bringing us closer to closing all chapters.
BalkanView: After the change in government, how do you address criticism from the opposition regarding political retaliation?
Zenović: Every EU membership process, as evidenced by the experience of current member states, requires a strong social and political consensus. In Montenegro, this consensus goes beyond party lines and ideological differences. The opposition also supports the idea of EU membership as a priority for the country. This maturity allows us to prioritize the national interest above partisan concerns and focus on the broader goal of integration.
BalkanView: One of the conditions for EU membership is good relations with neighbors. How would you describe Montenegro’s current relationships with its neighboring countries?
Zenović: Good neighborly relations have always been a cornerstone of Montenegro’s foreign policy. Despite challenges, we maintain excellent relations with all our neighbors. Montenegro actively participates in all regional initiatives and organizations, underscoring our commitment to cooperation. This approach will undoubtedly strengthen our EU membership bid, as we have no unresolved issues with neighboring states.
BalkanView: When do you project Montenegro will achieve full EU membership?
Zenović: This government aims for Montenegro to become the EU’s 28th member by 2028. This slogan defines our program and priorities for negotiations. Based on signals from Brussels and EU member states, this timeline is realistic. Montenegro’s accession would reaffirm the EU’s active enlargement policy and demonstrate that the process is merit-based. Since 2012, Montenegro has made significant progress in establishing itself as a state that upholds the rule of law, freedom of expression, media independence, and pluralism. By 2028, with continued effort, Montenegro can fulfill all remaining obligations, including administrative capacity building and technical standards.
BalkanView: What are the main challenges ahead?
Zenović: The biggest challenges are structural reforms, especially in areas like energy, ecology, and Chapter 27, which addresses environmental protection. This will require significant financial resources and extensive effort. Other complex chapters include those related to food safety, agriculture, and fisheries, which demand detailed legal and institutional implementation. While Montenegro’s administrative capacity is limited, we overcome this with the enthusiasm of our public administration and substantial EU support. There is much work ahead, but I am confident that Montenegro will meet these challenges and achieve EU membership by 2028.
BalkanView: How aligned is Montenegro’s foreign policy with the EU’s?
Zenović: Montenegro is 100% aligned with the EU’s common foreign and security policy. This alignment is a significant advantage, reflecting Montenegro’s commitment to European values not just through reforms but also by standing alongside the EU in critical moments. For any aspiring EU member, this alignment is essential, and Montenegro has consistently demonstrated it.
