Spajić, Escobar: Citizens begin to feel benefits of reforms, NATO membership accelerates EU path

The American friends are always by Montenegro's side, providing unequivocal support for our European path. This is strategically crucial, not only for Montenegro but for the entire region, conveyed Prime Minister Milojko Spajić during a meeting with US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Gabriel Escobar.

American support is crucial both in economic development and consequently in raising standards. We anticipate significantly more American and European investments in the future, added the Prime Minister.

During the discussion, it was emphasised that the EU agenda must remain a top priority.

It has never been more important to work on the EU path than now. Everything we see and hear indicates that the enlargement process is alive again. Therefore, it is necessary to continue meeting the benchmarks and closing chapters to ensure that Montenegro remains a leader in the negotiation process. I believe that this government, with the support of the parliament, has already achieved significant milestones on the EU path. We are here to support everything that brings you closer to the European Union and strengthens ties with Euro-Atlantic values, stated Escobar.

Obtaining the Interim Benchmark Assessment Report (IBAR) in the first half of the year was highlighted as the Government's main task.

There was also discussion about the importance of credible NATO membership as a security factor and an accelerator of the EU path.

The efficient implementation of reforms is already paying off for citizens through significant funding that we will receive for large projects, emphasised Prime Minister Spajić.

In just four months, we have received 112 million euros in non-repayable grants from the EU for the railway, and soon we will also receive 250 million euros for the highway. So, around 360 million euros 'for free' for infrastructure. Why is infrastructure important? Because developing infrastructure is essential for economic progress, and we will undertake this with the support of the European Union, as well as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). All major investments will be made with the support of credible partners. NATO is crucial for economic progress, and in the future, we will see even more benefits. Our credible NATO membership enables us to accelerate our path to the EU, emphasised the Prime Minister.

The current political situation in Montenegro, as well as the Cabinet reshuffle, were topics of discussion during the meeting.

Discussions also encompassed regional developments, as well as geopolitical matters.