He emphasised that the Commision’s mandate and aim is to prepare a fair and balanced Opinion on Montenegro’s readiness to comply with the criteria for membership and make a proposal to the Council on the next stages of Montenegro’s EU accession course. Based on the Commission’s Opinion, the Council will decide on the follow-up to Montenegro’s application including the possibility to grant candidate status or open membership negotiations with Montenegro. The Commission is pleased with the cooperation with the Montenegrin authorities so far and looks forward to continuing the smooth cooperation during the Opinion-drafting process.
