Montenegro celebrates 20 years of independence as it races for EU membership

• Montenegro is marking 20 years of independence from its union with Serbia this week, having already joined Nato in 2017.
• The nation's primary objective is now full integration into the European Union, with President Jakov Milatovic expressing confidence in achieving membership by 2028, a goal known as '28 by 28'.
• Montenegro is considered a front-runner for EU membership among the six Western Balkan countries, with public support for joining the EU standing at approximately 80%.
• Despite this ambition, Montenegro must complete significant democratic and economic reforms, and address issues such as organised crime and corruption, which President Milatovic noted were missed opportunities in the past.
• The country's independence was secured through a 2006 referendum where 55.5% voted to leave the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro, a decision that was divisive due to historical and cultural ties with Serbia.

IN FULL

Europe’s second-youngest country is racing to join the EU by 2028 – but this could stop them