Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – Minister of Finance, Novica Vukovic said that the Government has a clear goal of ensuring stronger economic growth, a higher standard of living for citizens, and full membership in the EU by 2028 through reforms, investments, and responsible governance.

 

At a meeting with the President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Odile Renaud-Basso, Vukovic said that the bank remains one of Montenegro’s most important strategic partners in that process. 

 

“Montenegro is currently experiencing a strong investment momentum, where reform achievements are increasingly becoming the foundation for new development opportunities and attracting capital,” Vukovic said at the meeting held as part of the EBRD Business Forum in Riga.

 

The meeting confirmed that the partnership with the EBRD is gaining a new developmental and strategic dimension at a time when Montenegro is accelerating its European integration and entering a phase of implementing some of the largest development projects in its recent history.

 

Vukovic stated that the EBRD is much more than a financial institution.

“The EBRD is a partner that has been present for years in Montenegro’s most important reform and development processes. More than €1 billion invested through 109 projects is the best confirmation of the confidence that the international financial community has in Montenegro, its institutions, and its European perspective,” Vukovic said.

 

Renaud-Basso noted that Montenegro is recording one of the most dynamic advances in the EU accession process and that the results achieved in recent years demonstrate a strong commitment to reforms and strengthening institutional capacities.

 

“Through responsible management and successful securing of financial resources, the Ministry plays a key role in creating conditions for sustainable economic growth, new investments, and the country’s long-term development,” said Renaud-Basso.

 

According to the Ministry of Finance, the meeting also provided an opportunity to reaffirm the shared commitment to further strengthening a partnership that has resulted in investments exceeding €1 billion over the past years. 

 

Discussions covered the EBRD’s new strategy for Montenegro, priority infrastructure projects, the energy transition, private sector development, and reforms accompanying the country’s European path.

 

Particular focus was placed on projects of key importance for Montenegro’s long-term development, including the continuation of the Bar–Boljare motorway and future phases of transport infrastructure development, including a bypass around Podgorica.