Montenegro is closer than ever to European Union membership, following a significant decision made in Brussels that opens the way for a new phase in the enlargement process. European institutions have approved the establishment of a dedicated working group, which will focus on drafting this country's accession treaty to the union. This development is considered one of the most concrete steps toward Montenegro's full integration, signaling a renewed EU commitment to enlargement in the Western Balkans after a long period of slowdown. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, in a reaction on social network X, described the decision as a major step toward membership. "Congratulations to Montenegro. Today we took a major step toward your membership in the European Union. The decision to create the Working Group for drafting the new Accession Treaty is a key moment. For the first time since 2014, the EU officially launches the process for the next enlargement," writes Costa.