Austria expresses desire for Montenegro to become the 28th member of the European Union

During a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development Nik Gjeloshaj, Minister of Labour and Economy of Austria Martin Kocher, who is currently visiting Montenegro, conveyed Austria's aspiration for Montenegro to become the 28th member of the European Union.

Discussions during the meeting revolved around further enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the field of economy, with an assessment that frequent high-level political contacts serve as an excellent basis for improving collaboration in all areas.

Deputy Prime Minister Gjeloshaj presented the plan for the development of transportation infrastructure until 2030, emphasising the significance of highway construction, which will further strengthen Montenegro's connectivity with Austria and Europe.

Too much time has been lost. There's no more waiting. We want a strong infrastructural momentum and better connectivity with our neighbours and partners, stated the Deputy Prime Minister.

He acquainted the Austrian Minister with investment opportunities and potentials that Montenegro possesses in the fields of energy and tourism, highlighting the strong developmental potential within these sectors.

The meeting acknowledged that the visit of the Austrian Minister Kocher represents a stimulus for further development of economic cooperation, especially regarding the growth of foreign direct investments, tourism, air accessibility, road infrastructure, and others.

Both parties agreed that today's visit represents a robust encouragement and support to Montenegro on its path towards EU membership. In this context, Minister Kocher stated his desire "to see Montenegro as the 28th member of the EU."

During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Gjeloshaj initiated the signing of a new Agreement on Mutual Promotion and Protection of Investments, as well as a Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of economy, considering that the existing one was signed back in 2001, a move that Minister Kocher supported. Further dialogue was announced in the forthcoming period.