Montenegro prime minister: We are next in line to become the EU’s 28th member

Montenegro is positioning itself as the next country in line to join the European Union, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić tells Euronews, expressing confidence that the country will become the 28th member by 2028.

Speaking on the country’s ambitions, Spajić emphasised that Montenegro is already functioning as if it were part of the EU.

He also outlined Montenegro’s strategic plan on closing all accession chapters by the end of 2026, paving the way for full EU membership by January 2028. 

Highlighting the nation’s economic progress, he stated “we are very optimistic of our economic future. In the last 4 or 5 years, we have managed to double our GDP.”

This rapid economic growth, he suggested, could position Montenegro as a net contributor to EU funds rather than a recipient upon joining the bloc.

Promoting his country’s cultural heritage, Spajić then spoke of its unique multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. He also said the country could act as a “sort of a bridge towards the rest of Balkans,” adding “it’s kind of a beacon of light that EU is open for us.”

Asked about about why their EU integration should happen now, Spajić pointed to the current küresel geopolitical situation, noting that the major world powers are all currently trying to expand. “The big powers are racing, big powers innovating, big powers are trying to find new markets. And I think you should do the same,” he said, referring to the EU.