Montenegro’s Minister of Energy and Mining, Admir Šahmanović, has introduced a government agreement aimed at fostering cooperation in the energy sector with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during a session in the Montenegrin Parliament. This initiative is characterized as a strategic move to secure vital technology and financial resources necessary for the country’s energy projects. Šahmanović pointed out that despite Montenegro’s ambitions and available natural energy resources, it lacks sufficient domestic capital and expertise to undertake large-scale energy initiatives independently.
The agreement with the UAE is designed to attract experienced partners capable of transforming innovative ideas into tangible energy projects. The minister emphasized that this partnership does not entail any loss of sovereignty or hidden commitments, nor does it threaten Montenegro’s path toward European integration. He reassured that Montenegro is not relinquishing land or control; instead, it is acquiring essential technology and funding.
According to Šahmanović, the projects included in this agreement have been under development by Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) for several years but have stalled due to insufficient capital and technological resources. He reiterated the necessity for Montenegro to establish itself as a regional energy hub that can provide affordable green energy to the European Union, which he believes could serve as a strategic advantage within the region.
During the parliamentary discussion, opposition member Milan Knežević voiced strong opposition to the agreement, claiming it represents a form of occupation or colonization, potentially leading to external control over Montenegro’s national energy infrastructure. Knežević called for the Constitutional Court to invalidate the pact, expressing concerns regarding exemptions from standard public procurement and concession regulations.
In response to these criticisms, Šahmanović highlighted that the agreement had received government endorsement when the opposing party was part of the ruling coalition. He reaffirmed that there is no basis for claims of betrayal or loss of control, framing the collaboration with the UAE as a practical approach to address domestic financial and technological challenges while accelerating development in Montenegro’s energy sector.
