(ANSA) - BELGRADE, JUN 5 - "Today's clear message is, and will remain, that we want you. We want the Western Balkan countries to join the EU soon, and we will start a gradual process," said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the conclusion of the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tivat, Montenegro. "Montenegro is on track to become the EU's 28th member state in 2028. And we encourage Montenegro to keep up the pace of reforms," said Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the press conference following the EU-Balkans summit. "The Western Balkans' future is in the European Union. Through investment, economic integration, and closer cooperation, we are bringing the Western Balkans closer to the European Union and, together, building a stronger Europe," von der Leyen stated. "After this summit, we are even more confident that Montenegro's accession to the EU in 2028 is entirely attainable. Of course, the work is not done," stated Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic. (ANSA).