PODGORICA, Montenegro (Oct. 3, 2025) — Finland’s Minister for European Affairs Joakim Strand reaffirmed his country’s support for the European Union integration of the Western Balkans during a two-day visit to Montenegro and North Macedonia.
“Our discussions revealed the countries’ strong willingness to move forward on the path to EU membership,” Strand said. “I expressed Finland’s readiness to support them in carrying out the necessary reforms. It is important for the accession process to remain credible and encouraging – it should motivate the countries to implement reforms and commit to European principles.”
Strand stressed that EU membership “is more than just a political goal; it requires long-term efforts to develop the rule of law, democracy and the economy.” He said Finland supports enlargement based on each candidate’s own progress and fulfillment of criteria.
“Enlargement is more than just a technical process – it is a strategic investment in the stability and security of Europe. Each step towards membership also strengthens the Union’s single market and common values,” he said.
During the trip Oct. 1–2, Strand held talks with Montenegrin officials including European Affairs Minister Maida Gorčević, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović, and Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić. He also met with North Macedonia’s European Affairs Minister Orhan Murtezani and Foreign Minister Timčo Mucunski.
Strand held discussions with civil society representatives in both countries and attended an informal dinner with Serbian Minister of European Integration Nemanja Starović.
