Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – Montenegro is expected to soon close Chapter 14 – Transport Policy, aligning its transport system with that of the European Union, said the head of the negotiating working group, Nikola Veljovic, adding that passenger rights across all modes of transport have already been harmonized with EU standards.

“Transport policy is one of the most complex negotiating chapters, as it covers several modes of transport – maritime, rail, road and air. Our goal under this chapter has been to align our legal framework and transport system with that of the European Union, and we are actively working on it,” Veljovic said in an interview with the Mina-business agency.

He noted that a large number of laws and by-laws aligned with EU legislation have been adopted, creating the basis for implementing social policy, protecting passenger rights, and ensuring conditions for domestic carriers.

“The key point is that we have almost completed the process and expect this chapter to be closed soon,” Veljovic added.

He explained that one of the closing benchmarks is related to passenger rights, which are now aligned with EU regulations.

“Parliament has adopted laws on rail and road transport contracts, as well as the Law on Passenger Rights in Maritime Transport. What is crucial is that our citizens will enjoy the same rights as passengers in the EU,” Veljovic said.

He recalled that air passenger rights have long been aligned with EU standards, ensuring compensation and refunds in case of flight delays.

“Now this applies across all modes of transport in Montenegro, both road and rail,” Veljovic said.