Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – According to Minister of Spatial Planning, Urbanism and State Property Slaven Radunovic, infrastructure, energy, modern urban planning, smart cities, and sustainable construction are no longer merely development topics but key issues shaping the future of societies.

Speaking at the Trebinje 2026 – Building the Region conference, which brings together representatives of institutions, businesses, academia, investors, and experts from across the region to strengthen dialogue on sustainable development, infrastructure, and spatial planning, Radunovic said that the European integration process is further encouraging regional connectivity and the harmonization of standards.

Addressing participants at the opening ceremony, Radunovic highlighted the importance of such events for strengthening cooperation in the Western Balkans, noting that it is becoming increasingly clear that modern development challenges cannot be addressed within national borders alone, but require a joint approach and partnerships.

Highlighting Montenegro’s commitment to being a reliable and open partner in the region, with a focus on modern, sustainable, and well-planned spatial management, Radunovic pointed to the Velje Brdo project as one of the most important contemporary urban development initiatives in Montenegro and an example of a new development policy that could also be relevant to other countries in the region.

He invited local and international experts, design teams, and interested companies to participate in current and upcoming tenders related to the Velje Brdo project, including the tender for the construction of the Velje Brdo boulevard, as well as the tender for the preparation of the main design and the construction of the first residential buildings, which is scheduled to be published this week. 

Radunovic reiterated that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening regional cooperation, exchanging knowledge and experience, and implementing development projects that contribute to infrastructure modernization and improvements in citizens’ quality of life. He added that conferences such as Building the Region play an important role in strengthening partnerships and creating new development opportunities across the region.