EU-Montenegro: four chapters of accession negotiations opened

Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations participated today 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 with Montenegro where a further four chapters were opened. The opening of these chapters is a clear signal that the enlargement process with Montenegro is progressing.

It is a principle of these accession negotiations that the overall pace depends on progress on the rule of law. Montenegro has recently made progress in this crucial area, specifically in the area of fight against corruption.

The new laws and amendments adopted last week by the Parliament of Montenegro 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.

Let me now say a couple of words on the Chapters we are opening today, starting with Chapter 18 - Statistics: Enhanced capacity in this respect will help to take informed decisions, in particular - but not only - when we talk about economic development.

I am sure I do not need to explain in detail the importance of Chapter 28 - Consumer and Health Protection, for the everyday life of the citizens of Montenegro. These standards aim to ensure that consumer goods are safe, that the EU’s internal market works for the benefit of consumers and that the EU citizens’ health is protected and improved.

The Customs Union, covered by Chapter 29, lies at the heart of the EU and builds the necessary link between EU trade policy and the EU's internal market.

Chapter 33-Financial & budgetary provisions, concerns contributions to and from the EU budget. In order to pay its share to the EU budget, and also to receive funds from the budget, Montenegro will need the relevant structures in place.

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.

In closing, let me just say that the last few weeks have shown clearly that the pace of accession negotiations lies with Montenegro. The Commission is ready to continue assisting, including through technical expertise and IPA funds. 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

STATEMENT/14/2722

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