DPM Simović meets with representatives of EUROSTAT and MONSTAT

Podgorica, Montenegro (2 June 2017) -- Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Policy and Financial System Milutin Simović met today with representatives of EUROSTAT, led by Piter Everers, Director of the Directorate for cooperation in the European Statistical System (ESS), international cooperation and resources, and with representatives of Statistical Office of Montenegro (MONSTAT).

Expressing satisfaction with communication with the Statistical office of the European Communities, DPM Simović said that this is a good opportunity to examine the compliance of national legislation with the European standards in this field, as well as the challenges that lie ahead of national Statistical Office, including the upcoming population census. In addition, he emphasised the issue of confidence in statistical data, which represent an important instrument in economic policy. DPM Simović said that he witnessed the development of the statistical system of Montenegro, particularly with regard to legislation, and that strong leadership and human resources in MONSTAT contribute to the growth of confidence in the institution.

Assessing that there has been significant progress in the work and results of MONSTAT and the entire system in the past decade, Peter Everers called on Montenegro to be the first country outside the European Union to sign the document titled “Commitments on Confidence.” He stressed that the independence of MONSTAT is a fundamental prerequisite for reliable statistical system and said that he is especially proud of the way the Law on Statistics is compiled and updated, adding that it is one of the best examples in this field. Referring to the population census of 2011, Everers pointed out that it is very good, but made after the traditional approach. He said that it is necessary to establish administrative and base register for the upcoming census of 2021. According to him, developing such a registry is an investment in quality and reliability. In this regard, Everers stressed the importance of support through IPA instruments. In addition, he noted the need to adopt the Law on Census.

Thanking his guest for visiting and suggestions, DPM Simović expressed willingness of Montenegro to sign the aforementioned document as soon as possible, stressing that the Government will work to strengthen MONSTAT in human resources and other terms. He said that the main challenge is the full implementation of adopted legislation that is harmonised with European legislation and highlighted the need to promptly start the development of an Administrative Registry Census in order to ensure reliability, efficiency, easier processing and rationality. Also, the Deputy Prime Minister said it is vital to prepare the Law on Census and take advantage of IPA instruments in order to develop the Registry Census and equip MONSTAT, improve human resources and IT system.

DPM Simović emphasised that the Government remains committed to the national Statistical Office, expecting of it at the same time to provide information that will contribute to the quality and reliability of economic policy.

PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO