Press release from the thematic Cabinet session

At its 87th session held today, chaired by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, the Montenegrin Cabinet adopted the Basis for negotiations and conclusion of the Agreement on cooperation in the field of infrastructure development between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of Hungary, and approved the text of the Agreement. The primary objective of the Agreement is to enhance both road and railway transport, thereby improving connectivity and contributing to the economic development of both countries. The Agreement clearly outlines the rights and obligations of both parties. The cooperation is based on the principles of friendship, respect for sovereignty, and mutual interests, in line with relevant national and international legal frameworks. Special attention has been given to defining responsibilities regarding financing, contractor engagement, and adoption of the necessary legislative measures for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects. Key infrastructure initiatives, such as railway line development and highway construction, are identified as projects of strategic importance. Hungarian economic entities are anticipated to take part in these projects as principal contractors and operators, under a special arrangement that allows direct engagement without the need for public procurement procedures, in accordance with Montenegro's national legislation. These projects are recognized as investments of special significance for the national economies of both countries. The Agreement also ensures full compliance with Hungary's obligations as an EU member state, as well as Montenegro’s legal framework within the context of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the European Union. This guarantees that the joint infrastructure projects will be implemented in alignment with European integration and legal standards. The Agreement is concluded for a period of five years, unless terminated earlier by written notice, in which case the termination becomes effective six months after the receipt of such notice.

The Cabinet adopted the Basis for negotiations and conclusion of the Agreement on cooperation in the fields of telecommunication, information technologies and law enforcement development between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of Hungary, and approved the text of the Agreement. The Agreement aims to promote economic and trade relations, as well as strategic partnerships in the fields of telecommunication, information technologies, and law enforcement development. It envisions knowledge and experience sharing in areas such as the establishment of technical and economic zones, support for small and medium enterprises, transition to a knowledge-based economy, and the application of advanced technologies. Particular importance is given to the reform of public administration in Montenegro, including digital transformation and preparations for EU accession. Activities will be implemented in accordance with applicable legislation and international law, through consultations and strategic projects, including the development of a national Data Center and modernization of law enforcement technologies. The goal is to enhance collaboration among public institutions, the private sector, and citizens in a spirit of equality and mutual benefit. By concluding this Agreement, favorable conditions will be created for strengthening dialogue and coordination between competent institutions, further advancing sector modernization and capacity building in areas of strategic importance to both countries. The Agreement will significantly strengthen economic, technological, and institutional ties, contribute to sustainable development, and build mutual trust — laying the foundation for long-term and successful bilateral cooperation.

The Cabinet adopted the Basis for negotiations and conclusion of the Agreement between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of the French Republic on the implementation of priority projects in Montenegro. The conclusion of this Agreement will strengthen friendly relations and improve strategic cooperation, particularly in the fields of economic development and trade. Its aim is to support Montenegro’s development through infrastructure and energy projects, digitalization, and the strengthening of human resources, while respecting environmental, social, and anti-corruption standards. The Agreement includes information sharing, joint identification of priority projects, and securing financial resources for their implementation. France will support these efforts through various financial instruments, including grants, loans, and guarantees. Particular emphasis is placed on cooperation on key projects such as the construction of a new University Clinical Center in Podgorica, modernization of the electricity network, development of renewable energy sources, digital transformation, and transport infrastructure development. The Agreement also sets out the conditions and procedures for project implementation, including anti-corruption measures and adherence to international standards for sustainable development. This provides a framework for effective, transparent, and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.

The Cabinet adopted the Basis for negotiations and conclusion of the Agreement between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of Ukraine on provision of e-government services. This Agreement will establish the legal framework for enabling Montenegro’s citizens to benefit from e-government services that have been highly developed in Ukraine. After considering economic development priorities and citizen welfare, a specific project has been identified as strategically important for achieving the goals of the future Agreement — the provision of e-government services in Montenegro. These services include, but are not limited to: software provision, know-how transfer, cooperation in education and digital skills enhancement, strategic planning, and implementation of the "once and only" principle. Based on this jointly identified strategic project, and in accordance with its feasibility and implementation, the Government of Ukraine will provide e-government services to the Government of Montenegro. In return, Montenegro will provide financial compensation. The amount of compensation and the specifications of the requested e-government services will be defined in a separate agreement. In full compliance with Montenegro’s relevant laws, neither this Agreement nor the future one defining the service specifications and compensation amount will be subject to public procurement, tendering, competitive bidding, or any similar procedure under the national legislation of Ukraine or Montenegro following ratification.