In an interview for Pobjeda daily, Bulgarian MEP, Peter Kouroumbashev, said he was happy to see Montenegrin opposition optimistic and supportive when it comes to NATO membership, which he considered crucial factor for the in-country stability.
“The EU accession process represents joint responsibility because it’s not important who’s running the state but to alter actions and align them to the existing needs,” added he.
Commenting on Montenegro’s accession talks, Kouroumbashev told it was hard to estimate whether Montenegro, or any other WB Country, was to accede to the EU by 2025. “Every country of the Western Balkans will be accessed based on its achieved results.”
Right now, it can be said Montenegro is a leader in the EU accession process, according to Kouroumbashev. “You have already opened Chapters 31 and 33 and I hope the accession process will run smoothly, as I’m convinced you’re able to close many chapters in next few years. On the other hand, it is important to stress that the rule of law, fight against corruption and freedom of media represent the core of chapters 23 and 24, opened long time ago. Actually, these chapters are basis for all other negotiating chapters,” Kouroumbashev has signalled.
He also added he was happy to have had opportunity to talk with the representatives of the ruling party and the opposition as well. “In my opinion, the opposition should return to the Parliament as that’s the only place eligible for discussions,” concluded the Bulgarian MEP.
