Completion of the highway is a prerequisite for stronger economic development

The completion of the highway is among the key infrastructure priorities and is a prerequisite for stronger economic development, better connectivity, greater security and attracting new investments, it was assessed at a meeting between Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović and President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group Nadija Kalvinjo.

The President's Office announced that the interlocutors assessed that the modernization of railway infrastructure remains an important long-term goal, especially in the context of more efficient and sustainable transport of people and goods, as well as better connections of Montenegro with the European market and transport systems.

Milatović met with Kalvinjo as part of talks dedicated to strengthening the partnership between Montenegro and the EIB, as well as continuing support for strategic development projects and the European integration of our country.

The meeting discussed current and planned projects in the field of road and rail transport, including the continuation of highway construction and modernization of railway infrastructure, as well as improving Montenegro's regional connectivity with European transport corridors.

Special attention was paid to projects in the field of ecology and communal infrastructure, especially investments in water supply and wastewater treatment systems in several Montenegrin municipalities, which have direct significance for environmental protection and the health of citizens.

"The EIB is the largest financier in this area, which represents extremely important support for improving municipal infrastructure, preserving natural resources and achieving European standards in the field of environmental protection," the statement said.

Milatović said that Montenegro wants to further expand cooperation with the EIB in the areas of sustainable tourism and infrastructure resilience to climate change, with the belief that the bank's stronger presence in Podgorica will contribute to the faster preparation and implementation of strategic projects and more efficient use of European financial instruments.

The EIB, as highlighted at the meeting, is one of the most important development and financial partners of Montenegro, with more than EUR 1,2 billion in support through projects in the areas of transport and utility infrastructure, education, healthcare, ecology and support to the economy.

"The EIB represents a strong partner of Montenegro on its European path, through support for reforms, modernization of infrastructure and strengthening the country's overall competitiveness," the statement said.

Milatović recalled the importance of investments that directly affect the quality of life of citizens, emphasizing that investments in education, the healthcare system, transportation and environmental protection represent an investment in the long-term stability, sustainable development and competitiveness of the state.

The interlocutors concluded that the partnership between Montenegro and the EIB represents an example of successful cooperation between a candidate country and EU institutions, aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens, sustainable economic development and accelerating the European integration of Montenegro.

The EIB, as they stated, strongly supports Montenegro's European path and its goal of becoming the 28th member of the EU by 2028.

During the meeting, Milatović expressed his satisfaction with the opening of the EIB office in Podgorica, assessing that it represents a strong confirmation of the EU's confidence in the European path and development potential of Montenegro.