By establishing a permanent representative office of the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Podgorica, Montenegro gains direct access to one of the most important financial institutions of the European Union (EU), which has been synonymous with development, innovation and sustainability for decades, said Minister of Finance Novica Vuković.
As announced by the Ministry of Finance, at the opening of the EIB office in Podgorica, he said that this event is not just an administrative act, but represents an important turning point in economic and European relations.
"By establishing a permanent EIB representation in Montenegro, our country gains direct access to one of the most important EU financial institutions, an institution that has been synonymous with development, innovation and sustainability for decades," said Vuković.
He pointed out that the EIB has been a long-standing partner of Montenegro and that this financial institution has contributed to a better quality of life for Montenegrin citizens through numerous projects in the areas of infrastructure, transport, energy, water supply, health and education.
“In the last few years alone, the EIB has supported projects that have connected cities, improved access to water supply, upgraded hospital capacities and helped develop educational institutions,” said Vuković.
He emphasized that by opening this office, the EIB becomes even more present and accessible, not only to state institutions, but also to local governments, enterprises and innovative companies that strive for development and competitiveness.
Montenegro, as Vuković said, is in the process of deep economic and institutional reforms.
"Our goal is to strengthen the resilience of the economy, improve public finances, and create conditions for sustainable growth that will bring new opportunities to young people and a better life for all citizens," said Vuković.
He emphasized that, in this process, the partnership with the EIB is extremely important.
"Together we share a vision of development based on innovation, green transition, digitalization and social equality. The EIB, as the "EU bank", with its presence in Podgorica confirms trust in our country and our reform path towards full EU membership," said Vuković.
He emphasized that the office in Podgorica is not just a symbol of cooperation, but a bridge between Montenegro and European development policies, a bridge that will enable more efficient communication, faster project implementation and a greater impact of investments on economic and social development.
Vuković said that Montenegro, in accordance with international law and its constitutional competences, has provided the conditions for the work of the EIB Representative Office.
Montenegro, he added, thereby confirms its commitment to a transparent and responsible partnership with EU institutions.
"With the opening of this office, Montenegro and the EIB are jointly entering a new phase of cooperation, a phase that, I am convinced, will bring even more concrete projects, new jobs and long-term benefits for our society," said Vuković.
On behalf of the Government, he thanked the EIB for its trust and long-standing support.
"And I express my readiness to continue to build Montenegro together as a more modern, prosperous and European country," Vuković said.
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