Presentation of the Study on Maritime Safety Measures in the Bay of Kotor

The Minister of Maritime Affairs, Filip Radulović, reaffirmed that EU accession remains a strategic priority, which in the maritime sector means harmonizing legislation, strengthening institutions and ensuring the consistent and measurable implementation of EU standards.

At the presentation of the Study on Maritime Safety Measures to Improve Navigation in Bay of Kotor, held at Europe House, the Minister said that investment, integration, and the green agenda are the key priorities outlined in the document.

We are committed to mobilizing both national and international funding, in close cooperation with partners such as the European Union, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the World Bank, and other financial institutions. Our goal is to turn the identified priorities into concrete projects that will improve safety and efficiency,” said Minister Radulović.

“The protection of the unique ecosystem of the Bay of Kotor is not optional, it is our responsibility,” Radulović emphasized.

We are committed to reducing environmental risks, promoting sustainable maritime transport and supporting broader goals of decarbonization and environmental protection,” he added.

Bernard Brunet, Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, stressed that the European Union remains fully committed to supporting Montenegro on its path toward EU membership.

The presented Study aims to further strengthen and implement the highest EU maritime safety standards within the exceptionally valuable ecosystem of the Bay of Kotor. Economic development, especially through the sustainable tourism valorization of Montenegro’s unique natural resources, such as the Bay of Kotor, must not come at the expense of environmental protection and long-term sustainability.

The Study was prepared as part of the EU project “IPA III/2024/462-662 Technical Assistance for Strengthening Capacity and Improving Legal Alignment, Performance, and Efficiency in the Transport Sector in Montenegro,” funded by the European Union and implemented by DAI.

In the end, The Minister highlighted that the Bay of Kotor is one of the most valuable natural and economic assets of our country and assessed that, with the continuous growth of tourism and maritime traffic, the need for smart, safe, and sustainable solutions has never been greater.

It provides a clear roadmap for future investments—investments not only in infrastructure, but also in knowledge, technology, and institutional capacities, Radulović concluded.