17 December 2018 - Prime Minister Marković stressed that the ambition of Montenegro is to open soon the remaining negotiating chapter, Chapter 8 - Competition, and that the country worked diligently and provided the internal readiness to close several chapters.
Prime Minister Marković and Commissar Hahn agreed that progress has been made in the area of the rule of law. PM Marković paid particular attention to the fight against corruption and organised crime, where, in his words, the country achieved a lot, and that even better results are expected to be made soon, especially in the areas of combating human trafficking and money laundering.
The meeting also discussed progress in the field of media. The emphasis was placed on the protection of journalists and media assets. It was noted that a set of media laws that should improve the media scene are being drafted.
PM Marković informed Commissioner Hahn about the political situation in Montenegro. The two officials also exchanged opinions on developments in the region.
The Prime Minister said that Montenegro has been continuously promoting dialogue and stability and that it will continue to encourage the region's progress and its aspiration towards the European Union. Commissioner Hahn praised the role of Montenegro in the region.
Next year, PM Marković underscored, the Government will give priority to the achievement of dynamic development and complete financial stability in the country. He also pointed out the good economic results the Government has achieved, which is reflected primarily in economic growth, deficit reduction, and an increase in the number of employees.
During the summer, on the occasion of Joint Vienna Institute Lecture 2018, Johannes Hahn that the door of the European Union was undoubtedly open to the countries of the Western Balkans and pointed out that candidates must first of all be aware that without the rule of law there is no progress on the European path. He also stressed that freedom of the media and expression is a fundamental right in the EU, and he expressed particular concern about the political control of the media and the non-governmental sector in Montenegro.
On the occasion of Montenegro's opening of Chapter 27, Hahn said that Montenegro is making a significant step forward on its “European path”. He also welcomed the progress in the rule of law and said that the focus, in the coming period, should be placed on the activities under negotiating chapters 23 and 24. Commissioner Hahn reiterated that the European Commission would continue to support the integration of Montenegro into the EU in terms.
