“The goal of Montenegro joining the European Union is truly within reach,” declared European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as she opened the first Montenegro–EU Investment Conference in the coastal resort of Luštica, near Tivat.
Von der Leyen noted that positive steps have been made and that the time has come to invest in Montenegro.
“You are very ambitious, and we like that,” said the head of the European Commission.
The EU official emphasized that Montenegro must accelerate reforms in the rule of law, ensure transparency in public procurement, and thereby send a strong signal that it is a reliable country for business development.
Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić described the EU as Montenegro’s most important strategic partner and largest investor, announcing a new cycle of major investments expected in the coming years.
“A cycle that will attract over €3 billion. The key message from today is this: Montenegro is open for business, and now is the time to invest,” said Spajić.
He reiterated that Montenegro is on the threshold of EU membership.
“By the end of 2026, we will close all negotiation chapters so that by the end of 2028, Montenegro will become a full EU member,” Spajić stated.
He also stressed that this is an opportunity for the EU to demonstrate that its enlargement policy remains alive.
The conference, dedicated to sustainable development, will present four European investment projects in Montenegro’s economy and include the signing of ten memoranda of understanding across various sectors.
