Montenegro and italy sign agreement on international road transport of passengers and cargo

Roma, Italy (12 March 2014) – Montenegro's Transport Minister Ivan Brajović and his Italian counterpart Maurizio Lupi signed earlier today in Rome the Agreement on international road transport of passengers and cargo, which will eliminate a set of administrative and financial barriers, and promote intermodal transport.

During his talks with Italian Transport Minister Lupi, Montenegro’s Transport Minister Brajović pointed out the successful project cooperation on advancing local road infrastructure and reconstructing the Belgrade – Bar railway, as well as the successful privatisation of a part of Montenegro’s port of Bar relating to maritime affairs.

Minister Lupi stressed the importance of signing the agreement for further development of economic cooperation, adding that during its presidency to the EU, Italy will seek a significant portion of the EU funds to be opted for the reconstruction of the Bar-Belgrade railway, as well as for other infrastructure projects that are to be carried out in Montenegro.

Both sides agreed that the international transport between Montenegro and Italy is a prerequisite for the development of other sectors of economy, and therefore the relevant ministries of both countries will continue to advance the cooperation through eliminating administrative and financial barriers.

The two transport ministers also discussed possibilities for promoting cooperation in the areas of search and rescue at sea, protection of sea from pollution, ship-building, establishment of a marine passenger line and cross-border cooperation within the project "Easyconnecting" and air transport.

Minister Brajović supported the initiative on organosing several stages of one of the most prestigious cycling race “Giro d' Italia” in Montenegro, which would further promote the country’s tourism potential and good neighbourly relations between the two countries.

During his visit to Italy, Montenegro’s Transport Minister also met with President of the Italian shipowners’ association “Confitarma” Emanuele Grimaldi and representatives of other shipping companies. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the transport cooperation and delivery of the Fiat cars through Montenegro’s Port of Bar, also addressing the opening of new shipping lines, with an emphasis on passenger traffic.