Minister Strand and Minister for European Affairs of Montenegro Gorčević to meet in Helsinki

Minister Strand and Minister for European Affairs of Montenegro Gorčević to meet in Helsinki

Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Joakim Strand and Montenegro's Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević will meet in Helsinki on Thursday 7 May. The purpose of the visit is to discuss Montenegro's EU accession process and the related reforms.

Montenegro is one of the candidate countries farthest along in the membership process, having set a target of joining the European Union in 2028.

"Montenegro has made determined progress in its accession negotiations and has a clear political will to continue the necessary reforms. Finland supports Montenegro's progress on the path to EU membership and considers it important that the membership process remain credible and encouraging," said Minister Strand.

"My visit to Montenegro last year confirmed my impression of the country's strong commitment to EU membership. I am very pleased to be able to continue the discussion and to meet with Minister Gorčević again, this time in Helsinki," Minister Strand added.

Finland supports Montenegro's efforts to join the EU and is in favour of EU enlargement based on each candidate country's own merits and the fulfilment of membership criteria. Finland especially emphasises the importance of democratic institutions and reforms related to the rule of law.

Montenegro submitted its application for EU membership in 2008, and its accession talks began in 2012. Montenegro aims to close the last chapters of the negotiations before the end of 2026.

Inquiries: Alexander Lång, Special Adviser, tel. +358 295 160 866 and Heli Siivola, Senior Specialist for EU Affairs, tel. +358 50 576 7745, Prime Minister's Office and Miia Lahti, Director, Unit for South-Eastern Europe and EU Enlargement, tel. +358 295 350 543, Ministry for Foreign Affairs.