Alliance invites Montenegro to start accession talks to become member of NATO
Since 2009, NATO and Montenegro have worked closely together through the Membership Action Plan, which helps nations prepare for possible future membership. The Secretary General said Wednesday’s decision reflected Montenegro’s “unwavering commitment to our common values and to international security.” Mr. Stoltenberg said it was important for Montenegro to continue on its reform path, “on defence adaptation, on domestic reform, especially rule of law, and to continue to make progress in demonstrating public support for Montenegro’s NATO membership.” The Secretary General said that the Alliance will continue to monitor progress in these areas as Allies start the accession talks and during the ratification process.
Wednesday’s decision will pave the way for accession talks to start in early 2016. Once they are concluded, Allies will sign an accession protocol which will have to be ratified by parliaments in all 28 Allies. Once that process is completed, Montenegro will be able to accede to the Washington Treaty and become a member of the Alliance.