MERZ: MONTENEGRO'S EU MEMBERSHIP BY 2028 IS REALISTIC

BUDVA, OCTOBER 22 /SRNA/ – Montenegro could become the European Union's 28th member in 2028, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said today.

"A country like Montenegro is one for which we can offer a concrete European perspective, namely that it will become the EU's 28th member in 2028. I believe that is realistic," Merz said at a news conference following the Berlin Process leaders' summit in Miločer, near Budva.

He also addressed relations between Podgorica and Zagreb, expressing confidence that they would not hinder Montenegro’s accession to the EU.

"I spoke with the Croatian prime minister, and we had intensive discussions about Montenegro and Croatia. I am sure the outstanding issues can be resolved and will not stand in the way of Montenegro joining the European Union," Merz said.

Speaking about the European prospects of other Western Balkan countries, Merz stressed the need for gradual integration with the EU, noting that some countries faced rising political tensions and unresolved issues that were impeding their progress.

Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić said negotiations between Montenegro and Croatia were very important and that the challenges could be overcome.

He expressed hope that Montenegro would close Chapters 23 and 24 of its EU accession negotiations in December.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker stressed the importance of involving young people in processes that will shape the region's future, saying Austria intended to help achieve that goal during its presidency of the Berlin Process next year.