European Energy Commissioner: EU pledges full support to Montenegro for implementing Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline project

Brussels, Belgium (25 June 2014) – Constructing of the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline is of paramount importance, given its European context, and the EU pledges full support to Montenegro for the implementation of the project, EU Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger stated at today’s meeting with Montenegro’s Economy Minister Vladimir Kavarić in Brussels.

Commissioner Oettinger said the construction of the TAP-IAP pipeline is important not only for the Western Balkans, but also for all the countries of the European Union and he offered direct and concrete assistance for the continuation of the project. He suggested organising a meeting of all interested parties by the end of 2014 in order to discuss technical aspects of the project, followed by a meeting at decision-makers’ level.

The meeting also addressed the activities concerning oil and gas examination in the offshore of Montenegro. Commissioner Oettinger voiced satisfaction over the successful completion of the tender procedure, expecting the project to be successfully implemented, given the worldwide reputation of companies that have submitted the bids.

Minister Kavarić informed the European Energy Commissioner about the activities related to the project of underwater energy cable between Montenegro and Italy, emphasising that its implementation on the Montenegrin side flows predicted dynamics. The Commissioner expressed his full support for the project, stating that the construction of the cable will be of major significance for both the region and Europe, especially in terms of increasing the attractiveness of investments in the field of energy.