By dpa, TIN24 Editor AMIT ALHAT
Podgorica, Montenegro – November 17, 2025, 13:54
Podgorica/Tirana – dpa/TIN24 – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has strongly endorsed the European Union’s enlargement to include the Western Balkan states, declaring that a larger EU serves the bloc’s “central interests” in security and prosperity.
Speaking in the Montenegrin capital Podgorica on Monday, Wadephul pledged continued German support for Montenegro’s bid to join the EU by its target date of 2028.
After meetings with President Jakov Milatović, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović, the minister praised Podgorica’s “great progress” in the accession process.
“If these efforts are intensified and Montenegro does not ease off, then this path can be successful,” Wadephul said, while urging all aspirant countries in the region to overcome ethnic tensions and complete the required reforms.
“A strong and united European Union makes the best contribution to security and prosperity for the citizens of the entire EU,” he stressed, adding that in times of geopolitical upheaval Europe must focus on “what binds us together – a space of law with significant economic power and political weight that facilitates freedom”.
Montenegrin Foreign Minister Ibrahimović underlined his country’s reliability as a partner and invited more German investment, especially in renewable energy, while also welcoming German tourists.
Wadephul later travelled to Tirana, where he was scheduled to meet Altin Dumani, head of Albania’s special prosecution office against corruption and organised crime.
Germany has repeatedly expressed concern over high levels of corruption and drug-related organised crime in Albania and neighbouring countries.
Currently, Montenegro (talks opened 2012) and Serbia (2014) are the most advanced in the accession process, followed by Albania and North Macedonia (2022).
Bosnia-Herzegovina is a candidate but negotiations have not yet started, while Kosovo remains a potential candidate.
Author: The India News 24
TIN24 (The India News 24) The India News 24 (TIN24) is a Mumbai-based news Digital Media focusing on breaking news, local and regional issues in India, with content primarily in Marathi. It was established with an X (Twitter) presence since July 2022. Owner & News Editor: Amit Alhat Education: BA in Mass Communication Journalism (Graduate) Experience: 12 years in journalism Platforms: - Website: https://theindianews24.in - X (Twitter): https://x.com/the_indianews24 - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theindianews247 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theindianews_24
