The European Union (EU) is ready to support Montenegro’s efforts towards a green transition and energy self-sufficiency, said Johann Sattler, the newly appointed EU Ambassador to Montenegro.
Sattler noted that the positive tone of the EU’s progress report on Montenegro demonstrates support for the country’s administration while underscoring the need for even more ambitious actions on key issues to drive further progress in the EU accession negotiations.
Key dialogue on mining and just transition
Ambassador Sattler met today with Montenegro’s Minister of Mining, Oil and Gas, Admir Šahmanović, to open discussions on critical issues related to mineral resources exploitation and the country’s path toward a just transition.
“The green transition is one of the most important steps on Montenegro’s path to EU membership,” stated the Ministry of Mining in a press release.
Advances in mining and energy sectors
Minister Šahmanović briefed Sattler on activities undertaken in the framework of Chapter 15 of the EU accession negotiations, which deals with mining, oil and gas. He highlighted that the Law on Mandatory Reserves will soon be on the agenda of the Montenegrin Parliament. Additionally, the tender documentation for the reconstruction of oil storage tanks in Bar has already been prepared, and funds have been allocated in the budget for the procurement of part of the mandatory oil reserves.
Political responsibility for a green transition
Sattler and Šahmanović agreed that a fair and green transition requires a high level of political responsibility and cross-sectoral cooperation. Sattler emphasized that the experiences of EU countries could be valuable for Montenegro and could be applied to its green transition efforts.
Sustainable mineral exploitation and future energy projects
Šahmanović also underscored the importance of creating a strategic document for the sustainable exploitation of mineral resources, adhering to high ecological standards. The discussions also covered plans for 3D seismic surveys of hydrocarbon potential in Montenegro’s Adriatic seabed and the future of the Adriatic-Ionian gas pipeline project.
Collaboration for Success
Both parties concluded that successful implementation of Montenegro’s fair and green transition will require teamwork and synergy among all relevant stakeholders, from national to local levels.
