The European Union (EU) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will support the improvement of Montenegro’s transport connectivity by providing financial backing for the continuation of the Bar–Boljare highway construction, specifically the Mateševo–Andrijevica section. The EU is granting €150 million in non-repayable funds—the largest EU grant ever awarded to Montenegro—while the EBRD has approved a €200 million loan for the project.
Johan Sattler, Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, especially for the northern region of Montenegro. He highlighted that this funding is not a gift but a commitment, with expectations for high standards including fair public procurement, environmental protection, community involvement, and transparency in spending. The highway will not only physically connect the south and north of Montenegro but also strengthen ties between Montenegro, the wider region, and the EU through shared values and regulations.
Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajić stressed that building road infrastructure is a top government priority and noted that despite challenges and route changes, the legal and financial framework is now in place and construction will proceed. He called the Mateševo–Andrijevica section a symbol of cooperation with the EU and a sign of trust in Montenegro’s future, helping to retain citizens by improving living and working conditions.
Matteo Colangeli, EBRD Regional Director for the Western Balkans, remarked that the Bar–Boljare highway is more than just a road—it is a strategic investment to improve connectivity across Montenegro’s challenging terrain, linking the Adriatic coast with inland regions and neighboring countries, and unlocking the economic potential of northern Montenegro. This project marks the EBRD’s 100th investment in Montenegro, with total investments exceeding €1 billion since 2006.
Finance Minister Novica Vuković described the agreements as the result of careful negotiations and partnerships, enabling strategic investments in northern Montenegro and fostering regional economic connectivity. Transport Minister Maja Vukićević noted that conceptual designs for the entire planned motorway and expressway network, totaling 585 kilometers, have been completed. She also confirmed that all technical, legal, and procedural standards required by the EBRD have been met, with contracts for consultants signed and tender processes for contractors nearing completion.
This combined EU and EBRD support is set to significantly advance Montenegro’s infrastructure development and regional integration.
