His comments came as the EU plans expansion in Western Balkans. Lithuanian officials also call on the EU not to forget Eastern Partnership countries, including Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova.
During his meeting with Montenegrin counterpart Srdan Darmanovic, Linkevičius said Lithuania considers Montenegro a success story.
“It’s a frontrunner in the European integration process,” the Lithuanian minister said.
Linkevicius underlined that Montenegro is currently in the 33rd stage, out of 35, of EU accession talks. “It’s not only just about numbers, it’s also about the substance. And I am very much grateful to Montenegro for the alignment with the European Union policy,” the Lithuanian foreign minister said.
Meanwhile, Darmanovic thanked Lithuania for backing the EU expansion policy. “Lithuania is a strong supporter of our European integration,” he said.