Statement from the 139th session of the Government of Montenegro

The previous decision has been changed eight times in the last two years in a, as emphasized, unsystematic and selective manner, which has led to the violation of one of the fundamental principles of the Law on Salaries of Public Sector Employees, namely the uniformity of salaries in the public sector for work on the same or similar jobs and positions requiring the same level or sub-level of qualifications. The public financial management reform program integrates horizontal public policy priorities, especially those related to environmental protection and gender equality, in accordance with Montenegro's national strategies and EU obligations, and aligns with key components of fiscal sustainability. At the same time, in relation to the Republic of Turkey, it is necessary to initiate procedures for concluding a new bilateral agreement to regulate the visa-free regime for holders of diplomatic, official, and special passports, to ensure, as much as possible, the continuity of the visa-free regime for these categories of travel document holders, in accordance with the EU legal framework in visa policy, which allows member states to foresee exceptions from visa obligations. The first strategically important projects identified are the Adriatic-Ionian corridor, a strategic infrastructure project that integrates transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure to improve regional connectivity of Montenegro, and the National cargo scanning and border control modernization project, aimed at enhancing customs capacities, more efficient control of goods, and strengthening border security. The memorandum establishes a framework for cooperation focused on better informing the business community about changes and opportunities brought by EU membership, strengthening company capacities for operating in the single market, promoting European standards, and improving access to information about EU programs, funds, and financial instruments. Funds allocated are intended for the reconstruction of approximately 39.6 km of open railway track from Golubovci station to Bar station, 17 km of station tracks, 6 km of shunting tracks, up to 10 railway stations and stops, up to 11 bridges, signaling, safety, and telecommunication systems, as well as contact networks and electrical traction systems on the section between Bar and Podgorica.