The European Union calls on all sides involved to accept the result and it will fully honour the decision of the people of Montenegro, read a EU Presidency statement issued on behalf of all 25 member states, acceding countries, candidate countries, potential candidates and members of the European Economic Space.
The EU confirms the prospects of the western Balkans based on the Stabilisation and Association process, read the statement.
The Union called on Belgrade and Podgorica to launch as soon as possible dialogue on future steps and expressed readiness to help them.
The EU applauded the successful organisation of Sunday's referendum, saying it was carried out in accordance with international standards for democratic elections.
The holding of the referendum is a sign of maturity of both the political forces and the people of Montenegro, the statement said.