French President Macron congratulated Milatović on Montenegro's Statehood Day and reiterated support for the EU membership process

French President Emmanuel Macron sent an official congratulatory message to President Jakov Milatović of Montenegro on the occasion of the country's Statehood Day. In his message, Macron expressed that he welcomed Montenegro's decisive steps in the European Union accession process with praise. He also emphasized that France stands by Montenegro in its EU journey and will provide strong support during this process. It was noted that the diplomatic relations between the two countries carry great importance in the context of Europe's common future. This congratulation is considered an indication of the international support given to the European Union integration efforts of the Western Balkans.

In the message shared by the French leader, Montenegro's comprehensive reform efforts were praised in detail. Macron pointed out in particular that the reforms have enabled decisive progress in the country's accession process. It is reported that these reforms include critical steps taken in the areas of the rule of law, strengthening institutional structures, and raising democratic standards. The French President stated that these efforts have brought Montenegro to the final stage of accession negotiations. These developments are seen as factors that consolidate the country's leading position in regional integration with the EU.

Montenegro is currently one of the most advanced states among the candidate countries negotiating for European Union membership. The country's accession process has regained momentum during the new government and presidency following years of political instability. However, the criteria expected by EU officials in areas such as the fight against corruption, judicial independence, and public administration reform need to be fully met. The emphasis in Macron's message reveals that these reforms are not only a technical requirement but also hold strategic importance for the country's future. In this context, if Montenegro becomes a full member of the EU, it is expected to deeply affect the geopolitical balance in the Balkans.

The message from the French President, who greeted Jakov Milatović as part of the Statehood Day celebrations, points to a deepening of relations between the two states. With Milatović's assumption of office, a steady target has been set in Montenegro's foreign policy regarding integration with the West, particularly with European values. France's high-level declaration of support shows that Montenegro's current foreign policy line is embraced by the major states of Europe. It is aimed to increase economic and political cooperation to accelerate the pro-European transformation in the country. Thus, while Montenegro's position in the international arena is further strengthened, the EU's influence in the Balkans is increasing exponentially.

These diplomatic contacts also constitute a critical topic for discussions on regional stability and security beyond Montenegro's borders. The message of support announced by the French President can be described as a concrete manifestation of the European Union's vision for the Western Balkans. The successful completion of Montenegro's accession process holds the potential to serve as a model for other countries in the region. This situation stands out as one of the most important factors that will determine the course of enlargement policies in the Balkans in the coming period. Ultimately, the international community's confidence in Montenegro's reforms is expected to be crowned with the country becoming a full member of the European family.