Ibrahimović, Jorna: Montenegro’s economic competitiveness key to EU accession

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović met today in Bled with Kerstin Jorna, Director-General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW).

The meeting focused on the economic aspects of Montenegro’s preparations for EU membership, with particular emphasis on strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of the Montenegrin economy and its effective integration into the EU Single Market.

Particular attention was paid to the development of digital infrastructure, economic diversification and the improvement of key transport infrastructure, including the continued development of the Bar–Boljare motorway and the Adriatic–Ionian Corridor. The interlocutors also exchanged views on the potential of renewable energy sources, as well as the further development of the construction sector and its alignment with European standards.

Ibrahimović and Jorna also discussed improving the public procurement and market surveillance systems, in the context of aligning them with EU rules and standards and preparing Montenegrin institutions and businesses to operate within the Single Market.

Ibrahimović stressed that Montenegro will devote particular attention in the coming period to strengthening the competitiveness of its economy, advancing the digital and green transitions, and creating a better business environment as important elements of its readiness for EU membership.