Moldovan president on official visit to Montenegro for talks on European Union membership

President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu paid an official visit to Montenegro on 19 May at the invitation of President Jakov Milatović. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in joining the European Union.

Montenegro has been a candidate country for EU membership since 2010 and began accession negotiations in 2012. The Republic of Moldova, also on the path to European integration, seeks to expand dialogue with countries in the region that have more experience in this process. Maia Sandu's visit provided an opportunity for an exchange of views and best practices regarding progress on the necessary reforms to become a member state.

During the meeting with President Milatović, discussions focused on concrete steps towards the European paths of both countries, alignment with European standards, boosting economic relations, and the security situation in the region. The program also included meetings with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and the President of the Parliament, Andrija Mandić.

"Moldova and Montenegro are on the same path — the road to the European Union. I had good discussions with my counterpart, President Jakov Milatović, as well as with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and the President of the Parliament, Andrija Mandić. We discussed how we can collaborate more closely on this path, so that people in both countries can have a better life," declared President Maia Sandu.

As a result of the visit, a Memorandum of Cooperation in the European integration will be signed, providing for the exchange of information, expertise, and best practices between the two states, in support of the EU accession process.

Additionally, the head of state visited the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre — a regional center dedicated to strengthening cyber defense, created with the support of the European Union, France, and Slovenia. The President expressed interest in developing cooperation in the cybersecurity, which is essential for national security and the protection of democracy.

The official visit to Podgorica reaffirmed Moldova's commitment to European integration and the desire to advance through solid partnerships and exchanges of experience with other states in the accession process.