NATO integration is cheaper than neutrality, says Finance Minister at Economics Faculty

Podgorica, Montenegro (14 March 2014) – Finance Minister Radoje Žugić told University of Montenegro Economics students that integration into NATO is a cheaper option for Montenegro’s defence than neutrality.

In his lecture entitled “Economic aspects of Montenegro’s NATO integration – cost-benefit analysis of membership,” Mr Žugić noted that in order to ensure neutrality Montenegro would need to have an army three to four times bigger, which would cause great strains on the budget. He noted that Montenegro currently spends 1.68% of the GDP on defence and underlined that Alliance membership would be cheaper, and generally more rational, sound, and beneficial in economic terms than neutrality.

After his presentation, and the presentation of opposition MP Srđan Milić (SNP), Mr Žugić responded to students’ questions, where he underlined the need to reach decisions based on arguments rather than emotions and underlined that the Government aims to join NATO in order to ensure lasting peace for Montenegro.