DPM Borovinić Bojović and Head of EIB Representation to Montenegro discuss further strengthening of partnership

Deputy Prime Minister for Health and Social Welfare Jelena Borovinić Bojović met today with Davor Kunc, Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Representation in Podgorica.

The meeting took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, with both sides expressing satisfaction with the cooperation to date and reaffirming their readiness to deepen it further. The interlocutors agreed that the partnership between Montenegro and the European Investment Bank is of strategic importance for economic growth, the improvement of public infrastructure and the quality of life of citizens, as well as for accelerating the European integration process.

They discussed projects in Montenegro in which the EIB has been involved to date, as well as opportunities to put forward new projects. It was particularly emphasised that all EIB-supported projects contribute to sustainable economic growth, strengthening gross domestic product and creating better conditions for citizens and businesses. The interlocutors noted that, since 2009, the European Investment Bank has supported projects worth approximately €1.5 billion in Montenegro across various sectors, including the crucial healthcare sector.

Particular attention was devoted to the implementation of projects to equip healthcare facilities. With EIB support, these projects have enabled the procurement of modern medical equipment for around 30 primary healthcare centres and hospitals throughout Montenegro. This investment significantly strengthens the capacity of the healthcare system, improves the quality of healthcare services and enhances the ability to respond rapidly in emergencies, particularly in smaller and more remote communities.

DPM Borovinić Bojović presented a number of ideas and initiatives aimed at further improving the healthcare system and developing new areas. These included healthcare tourism projects that would harness Montenegro’s natural assets, as well as initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles in order to prevent diabetes and various cardiovascular diseases. She also highlighted the need to develop sports medicine capabilities, noting that Montenegro has particular potential in this field. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of supporting the development of the country’s northern region in order to reduce regional disparities and improve access to quality services throughout Montenegro.

DPM Borovinić Bojović also presented an initiative to procure mobile mammography units, which would further strengthen breast cancer prevention and early diagnosis.

Our goal is to implement projects through responsible planning and partnership with the EIB that will have a tangible and lasting positive impact on citizens’ health, economic growth and quality of life. It is particularly important for us to make use of the favourable financing terms offered by the EIB and contribute to the balanced development of the entire country, Deputy Prime Minister Borovinić Bojović said.

Mr Kunc spoke positively about the development vision presented, the responsible, technically grounded approach and the selection of priorities for capital investment projects. He noted that the partnership is viewed from a long-term perspective and that making use of the favourable terms offered by the EIB is important for the successful achievement of Montenegro’s strategic objectives.

He also reaffirmed the European Investment Bank’s readiness to continue supporting Montenegro, emphasising the importance of developing competitive projects and maintaining close cooperation with the relevant institutions.

The interlocutors concluded that their dialogue would continue in the coming period, reaffirming the commitment of the Government of Montenegro and the European Investment Bank to strengthening cooperation that contributes to economic growth, modernisation and continued progress on Montenegro’s European path.