PM Marković meets with business people in Berane

Berane, Montenegro (2 February 2018) -- Prime Minister Duško Marković told business people earlier today in Berane that the Government managed to stabilise the economy and finance in the past year, position Montenegro as the fifth economy in Europe in terms of economic growth and establish excellent contacts with foreign investors.

Reminding the Berane business people that, when taking over the mandate, he stated that the people who are engaged in business should not be considered tycoons but contributors to the development of the country, Prime Minister Duško Marković pledged full support to business people.

Informing business people about the policies of the Government especially in the economy and finance sectors, Prime Minister Duško Marković said that Montenegro’s finances were threatened a year ago, its macroeconomic stability was unfavorable, and investment activities were virtually halted.

"Our partners, international financial organisations and others have proposed very rigid economic and financial policies aimed at halting capital investment, reducing public administration, reducing or freezing pensions, and of course reducing wages not only in the public sector but in the entire sector as well," the Prime Minister said, adding that he rejected such proposals despite a favourable $ 300 million offer in the first three years. He added that the Government decided to develop its own reform programme and that the results were visible: the budget revenues increased by EUR 75 million in 2017 compared to 2016, the position of Montenegro was improved and the World Bank supported Montenegro’s budget with EUR 80 million in December 2017.

The Prime Minister told the Berane business people that the success, energy and optimism from the state level should now be transferred to the local level because the potentials of Berane in tourism, energy, utilities and agriculture are indisputable, stressing that the Government is decisive and persistent in its commitment to develop the northern region of Montenegro.

Prime Minister Duško Marković emphasised that the Government will provide assistance to the economy of the northern region.

He also pointed out that the Government is facing resistance in carrying out reforms, referring to the issue of the High Medical School and the lack of understanding of his position that this educational institution should remain in Berane.

Prime Minister concluded by saying that the Government is doing a lot to improve the social infrastructure in Berane, stressing that he will soon request an analysis of the possibilities of incentives and benefits, especially for the northern region and underdeveloped municipalities.

PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO