Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – According to the Government, with the payment of the third tranche of funds from the Growth Plan, totalling €44.2 million, the EU has reaffirmed its confidence in the reform process and the results Montenegro is delivering on its European path.

 

“Of the total amount, €20.6 million will be paid directly into the state budget, while €23.6 million is intended for infrastructure projects through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). These funds will contribute to the further development of key infrastructure and the stimulation of economic growth,” the Government said in a press release.

 

The Government added that Montenegro achieved the best result among the beneficiary countries of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans in terms of fulfilling reform steps and absorbing available funds.

 

“The approved funds are the result of concrete reform activities implemented across several areas. Significant progress has been made in improving the business environment through more efficient removal of business barriers and better cadastre management. At the same time, investment in energy efficiency has continued through building renovations and the modernization of public lighting,” Government representatives said.

 

They stated that progress had also been achieved in the field of human rights, where a reduction was recorded in the number of complaints submitted to the Ombudsman, as well as in incidents reported by LGBTIQ civil society organizations.

 

“In the science and innovation sector, the number of funded actors in the National Research and Innovation System increased by 50 percent, while results were further improved through Montenegro’s better positioning in statistical reporting for science and innovation,” the press release said.

 

An important breakthrough was also achieved in the digitalization of public administration, considering that all 57 planned electronic services for last year were successfully implemented, fully meeting the set target. In addition, a new career management and counselling model was adopted through the Career Guidance and Counseling Strategy until 2030.

 

“In the field of social policy, the system for activating beneficiaries of financial support was improved through amendments to the Law on Social and Child Protection, enabling beneficiaries to transition more easily toward the labour market and greater economic independence,” the Government added.

 

Regarding the rule of law, a 20 percent increase was achieved in filling positions in courts responsible for combating corruption, while integrity mechanisms were further strengthened through the introduction of mandatory annual asset and conflict-of-interest declarations for inspectors, under the supervision of the Agency for Prevention of Corruption.

 

“These results confirm Montenegro’s strong commitment to implementing reforms in the areas of economy, digital and green transition, human capital development, as well as strengthening the rule of law and fundamental rights,” the Government stated.

 

They added that the continued successful implementation of the Reform Agenda marks an important step toward further progress in the EU accession process and securing additional financial support for the country’s development.