11/01/2024 | Press release | Archived content
Prime Minister Milojko Spajić delivered a keynote address to mark the first anniversary of Montenegro's 44th Government, reflecting on achievements, challenges, and the Government's vision for Montenegro's future.
Spajić highlighted the Government's three core objectives: ensuring Montenegro's membership in the European Union by 2028, improving citizens' quality of life, and strengthening the rule of law as a foundation for long-term development. He noted that, over the past year, the Government's progress has been validated by best-ever European Commission Report on Montenegro, with significant advancements in 30 negotiation chapters. By the end of the year, more negotiation chapters are expected to be closed than in the past 12 years combined.
He underscored the Government's dedication to economic reforms aimed at raising citizens' living standards, emphasising the recent implementation of the "Europe Now 2" programme. Under this initiative, minimum salaries have been increased to EUR 600 for those with secondary education and EUR 800 for those with higher education. The average salary in Montenegro is now projected to reach EUR 1,000. Additionally, the Government has significantly raised pensions, enhanced healthcare services, and invested in educational infrastructure and innovation.
Prime Minister Spajić also reiterated the Government's unwavering commitment to improving the rule of law, highlighting recent judicial appointments and increased support for Montenegro's security institutions. With over EUR 500 million in EU financial support, new infrastructure projects-including key railway and highway developments-are positioned to transform Montenegro and bring it closer to EU membership.
In closing, Prime Minister Spajić emphasised the importance of continued cooperation across all sectors of society to achieve Montenegro's shared goals. He called upon citizens to support the Government's reforms and work together to secure a prosperous, European future for Montenegro.
"Let us move forward with a united purpose," Prime Minister Spajić concluded, reaffirming his commitment to a fairer, more prosperous Montenegro.