Ministry of Regional and Investment Development: We have achieved concrete and measurable results

The Ministry of Regional Investment Development and Cooperation with Non-Governmental Organizations has implemented numerous activities in the past year that have yielded concrete and measurable results, the ministry announced.

"From supporting micro and small enterprises, through connecting the domestic economy with the European market and programs, to strengthening cooperation with the civil sector and investing in less developed municipalities, the Ministry has acted in a dedicated, responsible and strategic manner, in accordance with the real needs of citizens and communities, and has built the foundations for long-term changes - development that relies on knowledge, solidarity and local potential," the statement said.

In the area of investment development, the Ministry reminded that the Investment Support Program for this year has been adopted.

The total budget of 1,2 million euros was allocated through two program lines - 700 thousand euros for support of key investments and 500 thousand euros for small and sustainable investments.

The relevant minister, Ernad Suljević, said that through the Investment Support Program they want to further strengthen micro and small enterprises, increase their productivity and contribute to the creation of a more resilient, competitive and production-oriented Montenegrin economy.

Among the activities, it is noteworthy that the continuation of the EEN project in Montenegro has been ensured until 2028. The Ministry has signed a grant agreement with the European Commission (EC).

"EEN will continue to provide concrete services to our business people in the next three years - from support in finding partners, to information on EU regulations, technology transfer and support programs. Our goal is to facilitate their access to markets and increase their competitiveness," said Suljević.

In addition, with the coordination of the Ministry, the Single Market Programme (SMP) is being implemented continuously in Montenegro, as a key EU programme that contributes to the development of competitiveness, entrepreneurship and innovation.

The Ministry has paid the EC membership fee for this year, enabling access to all components of the SMP program for Montenegrin institutions, organizations, and small and medium-sized enterprises.

The Ministry also pointed out that the register of investment incentive measures has been updated for this year.

The registry contains 55 measures intended for domestic and foreign investors in Montenegro with a focus on micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, craftsmen, farmers, innovators, women entrepreneurs and other actors with investment potential.

The register of levies for this year has also been updated.

The register includes 26 classified charges from over 800 regulations. It is available online and free of charge and serves as a tool for businesses for business planning and public administration for policy creation.

In the area of cooperation with non-governmental organizations, a draft of a new law on non-governmental organizations was prepared and put up for public debate, while the Government adopted a decision to establish a Council for Cooperation between State Administration Bodies and Non-Governmental Organizations.

In the area of regional development, a draft of a new law on regional development has been prepared and put up for public debate.

"The law we are preparing will create the basis for stronger interdepartmental cooperation, improved coordination of development policies and, for the first time, concrete support to less developed municipalities," Suljević emphasized.

The Ministry has continuously worked to strengthen cooperation with local government units, investing in development projects, infrastructure solutions and stimulating the local economy.

Through a partnership approach, it contributed to creating a better business environment and sustainable development in accordance with the real needs of communities and its responsibilities.

"I believe in a Montenegro in which every city and every village has equal opportunities for development. Our goal is to build sustainable, connected and strong environments in which people stay and thrive, through partnership with local communities," Suljević concluded.