Strasbourg, 13/12/2011 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has started to prepare the negotiating framework with Montenegro and also the preparatory work for an early opening of the chapters covering rule of law, judiciary and fundamental rights, as requested by the European Council last Friday 9 December, announced Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Füle on 13 December. This is with a view to opening the accession negotiations with Montenegro in June 2012. In preparation for the negotiations, Füle has asked the European Commission's Director General for Enlargement to visit the country and exchange views with the government about the next steps in the process.
“The decision of the European Council with a view to opening the accession negotiations with Montenegro in June 2012 is clear recognition of the progress the country has made over the five years of its independence, and in particular since last December when it was granted EU candidate status”, added Füle, congratulating the country on its “excellent work” and “determination” in implementing reforms. He encouraged Montenegro to keep the pace of reforms in the months to come and said he looked forward to strengthened cooperation with Montenegro on the rule of law, the judiciary and fundamental rights. He said the European Commission would continue assisting the country in its efforts. (CG/transl.rt)