The European Union - Western Balkans Summit is one of the most important political formats in Europe, which brings together the leaders of the member states of the European Union, the leaders of European institutions and the leaders of the countries of the region.
These summits are held regularly as a platform for strategic dialogue between the European Union and the Western Balkans, with a focus on enlargement, security, economic cooperation and political stability of the region.
The 2026 summit is being held at a time when enlargement is returning to the very top of the European agenda, in the context of new geopolitical circumstances and the need for a stronger and more united Europe.
In the year when we mark two decades of the restoration of independence, on June 5, Montenegro becomes the place where the European dialogue on the future of the region and the continent takes place.
The summit in Tivat represents the first event of this level in the history of our country and the moment when the political attention of Europe is directed towards Montenegro.
This is not just a meeting of leaders. This is a political moment in which the directions of European politics and relations between the European Union and the Western Balkans are defined.
The summit is taking place at a time when Europe is facing new security and political challenges, which is why enlargement is once again gaining strategic importance.
In this context, the Western Balkans is becoming a key question of stability and the future of Europe.
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The summit represents an opportunity to speed up the processes of European integration and strengthen cooperation on the way to full membership.
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A clear political message that the region belongs to the European Union and that the path of enlargement is irreversible.
3
The European path means a more stable economy, safer jobs and more opportunities for young people to build their future in Montenegro.
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After June 5, Montenegro enters the final phase of its European journey, with the clear goal of becoming the 28th member of the EU by 2028.
Montenegro is hosting the EU-Western Balkans Summit 2026 at a crucial moment for Europe.
As the most advanced candidate for membership, Montenegro not only shows readiness for membership, but also the capacity to connect, contribute and actively participate in shaping the next chapter of Europe.
Hosting the Summit is not just an organizational success. It is a message of recognition of the achieved results on the European road and an incentive in the final phase of the accession negotiations.
Today, Montenegro stands out as the most advanced candidate for membership in the European Union, with a clear strategic goal of membership. Progress in reforms and alignment with European standards is already yielding concrete and measurable results. The summit in Tivat represents an important turning point in that process, with the clear goal of Montenegro becoming the 28th member of the European Union by 2028, based on results, reforms and a credible partnership. It's time to finish the job.
All negotiation chapters are open
14 chapters temporarily closed
High level of compliance with the EU acquis
Full compliance with the Common Foreign and Security Policy
Continuous progress in reforms
Clear political commitment to membership until 2028
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