Montenegro marks 20 years of independence and targets EU entry by 2028

Montenegro is commemorating two decades of independence this week with nationwide celebrations, marking its 2006 separation from a state union with Serbia and setting its sights on European Union membership as its next major national goal. The anniversary comes as the country, a NATO member since 2017, is considered a frontrunner for EU accession among Western Balkan nations.

The path to independence was forged in a closely contested referendum on May 21, 2006, where 55.5% of voters chose sovereignty. The decision was divisive, given Montenegro's deep historical, religious, and cultural ties with Serbia; approximately one-third of Montenegrins identify as Serbs. The independence drive was led by longtime leader Milo Djukanovic, who subsequently guided the country into NATO, a move President Jakov Milatović described as a pivotal security guarantee for the nation's statehood.

Now, with the motto "28 by 28" prominently displayed, Montenegrin leadership is ambitiously targeting EU membership by 2028. President Milatović expressed confidence in achieving this goal, noting that public support for EU integration stands at around 80%. The EU has formed a working group to draft an...