Montenegro Could Sign EU Accession Treaty by June 2027, Commission Says

The European Commission said on Wednesday that Montenegro could conclude its European Union accession negotiations by the end of 2026 and sign an accession treaty as early as June 2027. In its annual enlargement policy report, the Commission described Montenegro as the first candidate country since Croatia in 2011 to be close to completing accession negotiations, highlighting its progress in implementing reforms required for EU membership.

Montenegro, with a population of approximately 630,000, aims to become the EU’s 28th member in 2028. However, joining the bloc will require all 27 existing member states to ratify its accession treaty. The Commission urged Montenegro to maintain its reform momentum, complete preparations for membership and secure continued cross-party political support for its European integration efforts.

The Commission also assessed progress in other candidate countries, including Albania, Ukraine and Moldova, which are considered among the leading contenders for future membership. Albania aims to conclude its accession negotiations by the end of 2027, but the Commission stressed the need for continued reforms, stronger political cooperation and constructive dialogue with civil society amid ongoing political tensions and protests.