The development of modern infrastructure is one of the cornerstones of a country’s progress, and Montenegro is preparing to undertake ambitious projects that will propel its economic and social growth. Jelena Jovetić, Director of the Directorate for Public Investment Management and Public Procurement Policy in the Ministry of Finance, is leading efforts to implement major infrastructure projects, including the construction of 260 kilometers of highways and 200 kilometers of fast roads over the next four years. According to her, these developments will enhance domestic and regional connectivity. For the coming year, 342 capital projects, with an estimated total value of 3.667 billion euros, are planned, including 64 new projects worth 805 million euros.
In an interview with Pobjeda, Jovetić discussed in detail the transportation infrastructure that will reshape Montenegro, plans for building new schools and hospitals, and the development of underdeveloped municipalities in the north. A special emphasis was placed on transparency in managing capital projects, which is further strengthening public trust. Her vision and commitment reflect Montenegro’s strategic goal of EU membership by 2028 and the creation of a foundation for stable and sustainable national development.
Key infrastructure projects
Regarding the key projects, Jovetić emphasized the planned construction of 260 kilometers of highways and 200 kilometers of fast roads, which will significantly improve the quality of life for citizens and contribute to the overall economic and business prosperity of the country. In line with this, the Fiscal Strategy for the 2024-2027 period has planned an investment of around 2 billion euros for capital projects from the Montenegrin budget.
She also highlighted that the government is committed to the balanced development of all areas of the country, with a particular focus on the less developed municipalities in the northern region.
“To this end, a significant amount of funds will be allocated for local communal infrastructure. The estimated value of these projects is around 256 million euros, primarily focused on local governments in the northern part of Montenegro,” Jovetić emphasized.
Transparency and monitoring
Jovetić noted that the government has introduced a new obligation to track the progress of each individual capital project monthly, while quarterly reports are shared with the government regarding the status of these projects.
“Our quarterly reports are publicly available, and this step improves transparency in managing the Capital Budget, making it easier for citizens to access information about the individual projects that interest them,” she said.
Infrastructure as the foundation of economic growth
According to Jovetić, infrastructure development is the cornerstone of Montenegro’s sustainable economic progress, especially with a focus on underdeveloped municipalities in the north. This focus is a key part of the Ministry of Finance’s policy.
“The Capital Budget for the upcoming fiscal year is 15% larger compared to this year and around 28% larger than in 2023. A total of 342 capital projects are planned, with an estimated value of 3.667 billion euros, 64 of which are new projects worth 805 million euros. It is important to note that these projects are multi-year and will involve substantial investments in the coming period,” Jovetić said.
Major investments in transportation infrastructure
Among the largest upcoming investments, Jovetić emphasized the infrastructure projects that will significantly change the landscape of Montenegro, especially in transportation.
“The largest and most significant project is the start of the construction of the second section of the Bar-Boljare highway, from Mateševo to Andrijevica. We expect work on this project to begin next year once the tender procedures and preparatory work are completed. Additionally, next year we plan to start the design documentation for other sections of the Bar-Boljare highway. It’s also important to note that we will begin work on the Adriatic-Ionian Highway project for the first time in the upcoming fiscal year, along with three additional fast roads: one along Montenegro’s coast toward Bosnia and Herzegovina and another connecting Danilovgrad and Nikšić. These projects are crucial for the continuation of major transportation infrastructure developments,” Jovetić explained.
Investment in education and healthcare
Significant investments will also be made in education and healthcare, with plans for the intensive construction and reconstruction of primary and secondary schools, kindergartens, and hospital facilities.
“We’re talking about projects that are of particular importance to Montenegrin citizens, including a new primary school building ‘Vladimir Nadzor’ in Podgorica, a new primary school in Tivat, ongoing projects for the construction of the ‘Oktoih’ pavilion at a school in Podgorica, as well as the construction of three gymnasiums for secondary schools in Podgorica and a gymnasium in Mrkojevići in Bar. Technical documentation for kindergartens in Podgorica, Bar, and Ulcinj has been completed, with financing from CEB loans. These three preschool projects are ready to begin construction next year. The most significant healthcare infrastructure project will be the construction of the University Clinical Center in Podgorica, valued at around 200 million euros. Other planned projects include the construction of a general hospital in Pljevlja and clinics for infectious diseases and dermatology in Podgorica, as well as the reconstruction of the Bijelo Polje hospital and other healthcare centers in Montenegro,” Jovetić stated.
Tourism and sports infrastructure
Montenegro is also planning major projects in tourism, including completing the construction and modernizing existing ski resorts in Kolasin, Mojkovac, Bijelo Polje, Rožaje and Žabljak. New panoramic gondolas are also set to be built in Herceg Novi, Kolašin, and Cetinje.
In the field of sports, a budget of around 123 million euros is allocated for multi-year projects. This includes the completion of the sports hall in Plužine, the football stadium in Cetinje, the roofing of the outdoor pool in Budva, and the construction of sports zones in Kolašin, Tuzima, Pljevlja, and Bar, as well as several other sports facilities across the country.
Addressing regional disparities
Reducing regional disparities remains a crucial issue for Montenegro’s future progress, and the Ministry of Finance is particularly focused on this.
“Our intention and efforts to build stable public finances are based on the accelerated improvement of economic conditions, as well as the determination to become the first new member of the European Union. We are firmly committed to maintaining strong fiscal discipline, and through the management of public investments, we aim to give a new boost to economic growth, thereby strengthening Montenegro,” Jovetić concluded.
Project evaluation criteria
Jovetić explained that the Ministry of Finance is focused on the efficient implementation of the regulatory framework for investment management. According to the decision on capital budget preparation, the Ministry proposes projects for financing based on a list of prioritized projects submitted by the Project Evaluation Commission.
“The evaluation criteria for proposed projects are clearly outlined in the decision, which include factors such as the impact of the project on the budget, its contribution to regional and economic development, improving the quality of public services, protecting and preserving cultural heritage, and its potential to generate employment and reduce negative demographic trends,” she said.
Additionally, according to the decision, the government can include in the budget law projects of exceptional importance for the country.
Boosting foreign investment
Jovetić pointed out that investments in transportation infrastructure, education, healthcare and other vital sectors are expected to improve Montenegro’s connectivity and enhance its tourism and economic activities. This, in turn, will lead to greater foreign investment inflows.
“By improving these areas, we are creating the necessary conditions for a better economic future. This will contribute to long-term development and prosperity for Montenegro,” she concluded.
