Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović raised significant concerns about a recent cooperation agreement signed between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fields of tourism and real estate development. Milatović argued that the agreement violates the Montenegrin Constitution, particularly regarding discrimination, environmental sustainability, and other fundamental values.
While the economic cooperation agreement was not disputed, the tourism and real estate deal has drawn criticism. Milatović highlighted that it contradicts Montenegro’s key foreign policy priority of EU membership, deviating from the country’s obligations under the Stabilization and Association Agreement with the EU. He also expressed concerns about the undefined financial obligations the state might incur through the deal.
Milatović further raised legal issues, questioning the lawfulness of the agreement and suggesting potential criminal responsibility for government officials who approved it. He criticized the decision-making process, emphasizing that this agreement could lead to legal violations and undermine Montenegro’s international standing.
He also called for a clear position from the EU, stating that if the agreement is deemed compliant with EU law, it could set a dangerous precedent. Milatović stressed the importance of making decisions based on legality, not political expediency.
The Montenegrin government is facing additional challenges regarding the deal’s transparency. The Movement for An Active Society (MANS) has called for a public discussion in parliament, warning against the deal’s lack of transparency and the potential for bypassing domestic laws on public procurement and tenders.
Opposition figures, including local leaders in Ulcinj, have expressed concerns that the deal could harm the local economy and community. They warn that the project might lead to the exploitation of Montenegro’s natural resources for short-term profits, which would disproportionately benefit foreign investors over local citizens.
Prime Minister Spajić, however, defended the deal, asserting that it would bring significant investments and development to Montenegro, including tourism infrastructure, an airport, and universities. Despite the opposition, some political parties, such as PES, the Bosniak Party, and the SNP, have expressed support for the deal, while others remain skeptical and cautious about the potential risks.
As Montenegro grapples with the legal and political implications of this deal, the future of the agreement remains uncertain, with many calling for a thorough legal review and transparent debate in parliament.
