Iceland and Montenegro Could Join the European Union Together in 2028
World
Iceland and Montenegro could become the European Union's next member states as early as 2028. According to Politico, the scenario depends on Icelandic voters approving the resumption of EU accession talks in a referendum scheduled for 29 August.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos described Iceland as "a special case" because it is already part of the European Economic Area and the Schengen Area. If negotiations resume, they could be completed within one to two years due to the country's existing level of integration.
Politico reports that this timeline would allow Iceland to align with Montenegro, currently the EU's most advanced accession candidate. Montenegro has already closed more than half of its 33 negotiating chapters and aims to complete the accession process by 2028.
The publication also says that EU institutions are considering the possibility of preparing a single enlargement package for both countries. One European official described simultaneous accession as a realistic scenario.
According to Politico, Iceland's strong economy could further support this approach. The country is expected to become a net contributor to the EU budget, helping offset part of the financial costs associated with Montenegro's accession.
Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009, but accession negotiations were suspended in 2013. One of the key outstanding issues remains the country's intention to retain national control over its fisheries.
Politico reports that this timeline would allow Iceland to align with Montenegro, currently the EU's most advanced accession candidate. Montenegro has already closed more than half of its 33 negotiating chapters and aims to complete the accession process by 2028.
The publication also says that EU institutions are considering the possibility of preparing a single enlargement package for both countries. One European official described simultaneous accession as a realistic scenario.
According to Politico, Iceland's strong economy could further support this approach. The country is expected to become a net contributor to the EU budget, helping offset part of the financial costs associated with Montenegro's accession.
Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009, but accession negotiations were suspended in 2013. One of the key outstanding issues remains the country's intention to retain national control over its fisheries.
Powered by Froala Editor