PM Lukšić and EBRD’s Freeman discuss new ways to improve cooperation

Podgorica, Montenegro (3 May 2012) – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will play a great role in the recovery and development of Montenegro’s economy and in particular in encouraging entrepreneurship and development of key economies – tourism and energy, Prime Minister Igor Lukšić said at his meeting with EBRD First Vice President Varel Freeman earlier today in Podgorica.

The two officials concluded that EBRD is one of Montenegro’s most important partners in implementing development and other major projects, and that a diversified assistance programme will open up possibilities to broaden and improve cooperation.

Mr Freeman underlined that Montenegro has been successful in pursuing its European and Euro-Atlantic agendas and that EBRD will continue assisting projects in the areas such as infrastructure, finance, energy, and transportation. He noted that Montenegro has achieved “impressive progress” in various areas and that it is recognised as offering favourable conditions and advantages for investment, which is a good signal for investors from the international community.

Prime Minister Lukšić noted that in the years when the global crisis has spilled over to Montenegro, the Government remains dedicated to economic revival and to creating preconditions for long-term and sustainable development. He added that as Montenegro moves forward in integration processes, the EBRD support will be important in encouraging entrepreneurship and development of key economies – tourism and energy.

The Prime Minister informed his guest of Government’s activities aimed at preserving the macro-economic stability, continuing structural reform, and improving business environment. Mr Lukšić also mentioned the new Secretariat for Development Projects, tasked to assist the implementation of strategic and development programmes.

Vice President Freeman commended Government’s policy of improving the business environment and promised the continuation of assistance through credit support and programmes of assisting the small and mid-size businesses.