EU-Montenegro: four chapters of accession negotiations opened

Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations participated on 16 December 2014 in the ‘Fifth meeting of the Accession Conference with Montenegro’ at Ministerial level.

This is what he said to the media at the press conference:

‘It was my pleasure to participate in today's Accession Conference where a further four chapters were opened. This is a clear signal that the enlargement process is progressing.

Accession negotiations overall pace depends on progress on the rule of law. Montenegro has recently made progress in this crucial area, specifically in the fight against corruption.

The new laws adopted last week by the Parliament are expected to contribute to the prevention of corruption in Montenegro.

However, - and I would like to be very clear on this - only their effective implementation will help to achieve concrete results. It is of utmost importance that Montenegro establishes a credible track record of implementation. Therefore the implementing bodies need to be equipped rapidly with trained staff, equipment, and budget.

In summary, 2015 should be the year where we see tangible results in the area of rule of law as well as a strong focus on addressing the remaining opening benchmarks.

The last few weeks have shown clearly that the pace of accession negotiations lies with Montenegro. I am convinced that if Montenegro maintains the pace, we will see tangible results soon, for the benefit of Montenegrin citizens.’

For more information read press release here: http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_Data/docs/pressdata/EN/genaff/146346.pdf

Watch the press conference here: http://video.consilium.europa.eu/webcast.aspx?ticket=775-982-15245