The European Liberal Forum (ELF), the ALDE Party, and the Atlantic Club in Bulgaria organized the fifth edition of the "EU Meets the Balkans" forum at "Sofia Tech Park." The main focus of the event was directed toward the various stages and expectations regarding the European Union accession process for the Western Balkan countries. In the panel "Voices of the Region: The Balkans' Path in a Competitive World," representatives from Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Romania, and Turkey presented their aspirations. The discussion was moderated by Maria Simeonova, a political researcher and Director of the European Council on Foreign Relations office in Sofia.

As part of the forum, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Filip Ivanović, Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Affairs of Montenegro. During the conversation, both sides confirmed that Bulgaria will continue to support Montenegro in its pursuit of European Union membership. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs press center reported that it is critically important to maintain the progress achieved and to continue reforms so that the country can capitalize on the opportunities opening up before it.

Montenegro's European integration is of key importance not only for the country itself but also for the entire European perspective of the region, Minister Petrova emphasized. She called for a predictable EU enlargement process based on real results and confirmed Bulgaria's readiness to share its experience and expertise in this direction.

One of the key steps to improving bilateral connectivity is the planned launch of a direct air link between Sofia and Podgorica. According to Minister Petrova, such a connection will facilitate business contacts, encourage tourism exchange, and create new investment opportunities. Both sides will continue their coordination to find a sustainable solution, including regarding the operator and the conditions for implementing the route.

Regarding economic cooperation, emphasis was placed on expanding trade contacts and improving transport connectivity. "A good political foundation must be reflected in real economic results," stated Minister Velislava Petrova, as quoted by the press center. In this context, she highlighted the role of economic diplomacy in promoting direct contacts between businesses and turning opportunities into concrete partnerships.

The following were identified as prospective areas for the development of bilateral relations:

  • tourism;
  • energy;
  • defense;
  • culture;
  • science.

Minister Petrova also pointed to the great potential for developing regional tourism through better connectivity and the joint promotion of Bulgaria and the Western Balkans as a tourist destination. Opportunities to discuss specific business partnerships and track trade exchange will also be provided at the upcoming meeting of the Joint Bulgarian-Montenegrin Intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added.