The European Union is officially moving into the final stage of its expansion. The ambassadors of the 27 EU member states (COREPER) have approved the creation of a special working group to draft the Accession Treaty for Montenegro. This marks the first such document to be developed by Brussels since Croatia joined the bloc in 2013.
The decision to form this ad hoc working group serves as recognition of Podgorica’s significant progress in legislative reform and the strengthening of its state institutions. Cyprus, currently holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU, confirmed that the group’s creation is a “powerful political signal” confirming that Montenegro’s membership is a reality in the near future.
“Congratulations to Montenegro—today we have taken a major step on the path to your accession. The decision to establish the working group is a key milestone,” noted European Council President António Costa.
The creation of the working group shifts the process from the realm of political negotiations to formal legal drafting. The group’s primary tasks include:
Drafting the Text: Preparing the legally binding document that will finalize the terms and conditions of entry.
Safeguard Mechanisms: According to EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, the new treaty will include modern rule-of-law safeguards to prevent any potential “backsliding” on reforms after accession.
Technical Adaptation: Coordinating transition periods for various economic sectors.
Montenegro’s Minister for European Affairs, Maida Gorčević, called the day historic, emphasizing that the country is ready to complete its “reform marathon” and become the 28th member of the European Union.