26 June 2019 - Minister of Public Administration Suzana Pribilović participated in the United Nations Public Service Forum (UNPSF) titled "Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through effective Delivery of Services, Innovative Transformation and Accountable Institutions", which recently took place in Baku.

"The priority of the Government of Montenegro is to establish an efficient, rational and transparent public administration. Administrations that will, in accordance with contemporary trends, place the citizen in the first place and establish a high level of openness and transparency of public institutions in the era of modern information technologies," Minister Pribilović said at the United Nations panel debate sponsored by ReSPA. 

She pointed out that establishing an efficient, rational and transparent public administration is not an easy task, but it is imperative for our administration and a prerequisite to responding to global challenges, as stated by the Ministry of Public Administration of Montenegro.

"That is why the key to solving this challenge is to join capacities. We can learn a lot from each other in all phases from designing services to measuring the satisfaction of their use," Minister Pribilović noted.

"We are constantly working on improving the work of electronic administration and increasing the number of electronic services. Through the new Law on Electronic Signature and Identification, we have created the conditions for high-quality electronic business, established a new system of protection against cyber attacks and we managed to protect the system from cyber attacks in the previous period. Also, through securing the continuity of the reform processes, we are committed to meeting the standards and values ​​inherent in modern societies," Minister Pribilović stressed.

Read more news about lifestyle in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

26 June 2019 - Good knowledge and consistent implementation of domestic and international legal norms by judges and prosecutors is a key line of defence against the danger of illegal migration and terrorism, Deputy Prime Minister Zoran Pažin said at the opening of an international conference of presidents of supreme courts and general prosecutors in Budva recently.

"A competent and efficient judiciary and prosecution, with the adequate work of security services, is a prerequisite for building a safe and just society we aspire to," the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

He emphasised that the success of the fight against illegal migration and terrorism depends on the efficiency of mutual cooperation between states and international organisations, as well as on the capacity and resilience of each state and each society. "In Montenegro, we work seriously on both track - we actively participate in numerous international anti-terrorism initiatives and we develop the security capabilities of our State and society," DPM Pažin explained in the announcement for Office of Deputy Prime Minister.

He stated that Montenegro, within its capacities, contributes to the international front of the fight against illegal migration and terrorism responsibly and actively.

"In this area, we have continuous operational cooperation through INTERPOL and EUROPOL, as well as direct cooperation with the security services of other countries. Through international information exchange, Montenegrin security agencies actively contribute to the discovery of foreign terrorist fighters, smuggling networks and other security threats related to illegal migration," said Pažin.

He also recalled the adoption of modern regulations, which enabled Montenegro to incorporate into its legal system the most international standards for the protection of human rights and respect for both its own citizens and foreigners. 

"In parallel to the establishment of a modern regulatory framework in line with international standards, an important work of further strengthening of institutions, that is, further education, equipping and strengthening the overall capabilities of our institutions to tackle this significant security challenge is ahead of us," DPM Pažin concluded.

Read more about business in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

25 June 2019 - Accession to the European Union is one of the strongest drivers of economic development, which is why all Western Balkan countries have an interest in pursuing this path, with a greater presence of the European Union and a responsible attitude towards the region, and mutual trust and understanding, said Chief Negotiator for Montenegro Aleksandar Drljević at a conference in Stockholm.

He took part in a ministerial conference on the Western Balkans in Stockholm, which gathered representatives of the European Commission and ministers of foreign affairs and European integration of the Western Balkan countries.

"Accession to the European Union has proven to be one of the strongest drivers of economic development, stability and peace, and we therefore all share the interest in continuing this process," noted Chief Negotiator Aleksandar Drljević in European Integration Office report.

Chief Negotiator for Montenegro Aleksandar Drljević also added that investing in the stability and prosperity of the region is, in fact, an investment in the security and the future of the European Union and Europe as a whole. On the other hand, the citizens of the countries of the Western Balkans have higher expectations than the European Union.

"They expect the Union to be even more present in our region, as an internationally recognised actor and donor, with even greater attention to this part of the continent, as well as to encourage further reforms, taking into account progress and results achieved," Chief Negotiator Drljević underscored.

Read more news about Politics in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

25 June 2019 - The continuation of the enlargement process and consolidation of the credibility of the Western Balkan European perspective is in the interest of stability, security and prosperity of the region, as well as Europe as a whole, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro Srđan Darmanović and his counterpart from Portugal, Augusto Santos Silva agreed at the meeting that was recently held.

26 June 2019 - Montenegrin independence is eternal and so is Montenegro. That’s what Prime Minister Duško Marković said to Milan Knežević during the Prime Minister’s hour, reports CDM. Marković said it in response to Knežević’s statement that Montenegrin independence was regained by bribery. The first man of Montenegrin Government was loud and clear – Democratic Front is allowed to mourn the lost referendum, but they should forget once and for all about bringing Montenegro back into somebody else’s auspices.

Milan Kneževič asked PM to comment on the direct impact of foreign elements on the outcome of the referendum held in 2006, which have been confirmed by the released transcript of the conversation between Milan Roćen and Oleg Deripaska in 2005.

Knežević claims that this conversation is proof that independence was obtained by bribery.

“The Government provided secret guarantee and Kosovo provided free electricity”, said Knežević and added that monument to Oleg Deripaska should be set up in every Montenegrin town.

Marković said that Knežević’s politics was trapped in the ideas of the last century and reminded him of the historical facts and all the way Montenegro had gone through until regaining its independence. He says there are no elements that would change the overall picture of the referendum in 2006, when citizens made a wise choice.

“We’ve gone so far and we can’t let anybody threaten our country now. That’s why we aren’t buying the invalid provocations”, said PM. He told Knežević that his undermining of Montenegrin independence wouldn’t be tolerated anymore.

Marković also commented on the Law on Freedom of Religion and said he hoped the law would have been at desks of the MPs by the end of July.

“People who haven’t even read the law have been discussing it for weeks. The highest Serbian officials, including the president – nobody has read it. This law has been drafted in accordance with the highest standards of the Council of Europe. It’s a contemporary law and establishes right to the religious organization but within this country and its laws, not within some other country”, said PM.

He added that the Venice Commission confirmed the quality of the law and suggested the amendments where necessary.

Read more about Politics in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

25 June 2019 - Macedonian News Portal Radar.mk has recently posted an article about the best holiday destinations for the summer of 2019, and the most modern tourist destination in Montenegro for an active holiday with great nightlife, Budva, has been placed on top of the list!

Montenegro’s sparkling coastline seems to be drawing tourists more than ever since the coastline cities have put their focus on building unique high-class accommodation units and developing the necessary infrastructure for easier access to the coastal cities. Montenegro, and more precisely, Budva has become the most desirable location on the Adriatic for all lovers of gorgeous sandy beaches and seafood specialties. Offering the perfect weather, five-star hotels, high-class restaurants, more than 30 large beaches across the Riviera and the most amazing nightlife on the Adriatic, it is not surprising that Budva occupies a high position on the list of best world destinations for a perfect summer holiday.

Summer vacation is just around the corner and all plans for summer vacation are already becoming a priority. Everyone deserves a little rest on a sandy beach with a cold drink and a substantial amount of sunscreen. Still, deciding on where to relax through the summer is not easy, especially if one wants an affordable holiday, with a beautiful beach and sea and delicious food. Radar has created a list of gorgeous destinations for the indecisive tourists who can’t seem to choose where to enjoy their summer adventure!

Budva is a pearl of the Adriatic and the Mediterranean tourism hub. It is a place where you can feel the influence of the culture of the East and West, Hellenic and Roman culture. Old Town Budva, with its incredible architecture, attracts thousands of tourists, and in the evening, it turns into an outdoor theater that suits the taste of all locals and guests. Budva Riviera offers 35 most famous beaches of the Adriatic (Jaz, Ploče, Trsteno Mogren, Slovenska Beach, Bečići, Miločer, Sveti Stefan and many others). The intense nightlife is one of the main characteristics of the city, which is why Budva is named the capital of Montenegrin tourism.

“Given that the Adriatic Sea is indispensable, Montenegro should be your first choice," says the reporter of Radar. For a more active day at the beach, Budva Riviera offers a wide range of activities such as diving, water skiing, exploring the shores by boat, great food and more.

Except for Montenegro (Budva), Radar’s list of top holiday destinations includes Greece (Thassos), Bulgaria (Ahtopol), Albania (Ksamil) and Malta.

Read more about holiday destinations in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

25 June 2019 - Read the essential advice for festival-goers this year by the British Embassy in Montenegro - how to stay safe so you can have a good time.

Montenegro is a popular music festival destination. Southern Soul Festival is a boutique festival in Ulcinj and Sea Dance Festival is the coastal sister of EXIT music festival in Budva, organised this year from 26 June to 2 July and from 30 August to 1 September 2019 respectively. Other music festivals run from June to September throughout Montenegro.

Whilst the majority of thousands of festival goers have a great time in Montenegro with no problems, for those who might require assistance, the British Embassy in Montenegro has prepared all the basic information they could need in order to organize their journey and stay safe.

Before you set off for Montenegro, do these simple tasks:

1. get travel insurance and check what it covers – European health insurance is not valid in Montenegro
2. leave a photocopy of your passport with your family in your native country
3. fill in the last page of your passport with your emergency contacts
4. check with the festival organisers if you can pre-book a safety locker at the festival
5. check the location of the embassy of your country in Montenegro

When you arrive, make sure you:

1. register with the police, local tourist organisation or accommodation provider within 24 hours of arriving
2. keep your valuables safe – do not leave your belongings unattended and lock them away if you have the possibility to do so
3. carry a photocopy of your passport with you and leave the original locked away
4. be extra careful in large crowds, keep your cash in a zipped pocket or bag
5. have one of your cash cards and some cash separate from the rest of your valuables just in case
6. do not get involved in any way with drugs as penalties are high in Montenegro
7. follow the instructions of the event organisers and the Montenegrin Police whenever necessary
8. temperatures in Montenegro can be high, so take extra care, especially if swimming under the influence of alcohol.

After it’s over, continue to be vigilant:

1. bear in mind you will be tired, which makes you less cautious
2. don’t fall asleep on the beach if you have your valuables on you. Crime levels are low, but street crime can sometimes occur, particularly in larger towns. Watch out for pickpockets in public places like tourist hot spots, beaches, airports and on public transport
3. local traffic around the festival location will be overcrowded, so give yourself plenty of time to get back to the airport or to get to your bus or train.

If something goes wrong:

1. you can always reach the local emergency services (ambulance, police, fire brigade) by calling 112 from any mobile or landline
2. the embassy is surely available to offer help and support
3. don’t forget that the festival organisers can also support you. Go to one of the information points at the campsite. For more information on the festival itself, visit their website.

Read more about travelling through Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

25 June 2019 - British Lord Howe, Deputy Leader of the House of Lords and Minister of State for Defence, is currently on an official two-day visit to Podgorica, Montenegro. During the visit, Lord Howe will meet with Prime Minister of Montenegro, Duško Marković and officials of the Ministry of Defence, says the statement from the British Embassy in Montenegro.

Lord Howe, who is a Conservative member of the House of Lords and its Deputy Leader, supports the House of Lords in its job of improving legislation and debating topics of national significance. As the Minister of State for Defence, the lord is the Spokesman in the House of Lords on defence matters, including EU relations, which is why Lord Howe’s visit is of great importance for the improvement of the relations between UK and Montenegro.

During the visit of the British lord, two combat aircraft of the type Eurofighter Typhoon will also come to Podgorica. The aircraft will be stationed at the airport Knjaz Danilo in Golubovci. Eurofighter Typhoon is the world’s most advanced swing-role combat aircraft providing simultaneously deployable Air-to-Air and Air-to-Surface capabilities. With units operating worldwide, the Eurofighter Typhoon fleet completed over 500,000 flying hours with unparalleled operational statistics from Europe to the South Atlantic and the Middle East, and the UK is a key member of the Eurofighter Typhoon consortium.

The visit of Lord Howe and the combat aircraft is another example of successful cooperation between the United Kingdom and Montenegro.

Read more about Politics in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

23 June 2019 - Karisma Hotels Adriatic Montenegro, as part of Karisma Hotels & Resorts, recently presented 96 spacious luxury apartments in the new part of the complex Holiday Village Montenegro to the locals and tourists of Ulcinj.

Apart from the apartments, two new swimming pools were presented to the guests, one for adults and one for children, reports Glasnik by Montenegrin Chamber of Economy.

"The new building is very nicely embedded in the existing ambience, thus additionally contributing to the offer of this unique four-star complex," said the management of the hotel group.

Holiday Village Montenegro is located on the Great Beach (Montenegrin: Velika plaža), which is famous for its beauty, medicinal sand, as well as pines, which cover a large of the complex.

"This position and plenty of content make Holiday Village Montenegro a haven for all visitors, whether they are looking for romance, recreation or relaxation. Our friendly staff will ensure that the service exceeds the expectations of all guests," says the announcement of the hotel group management.

Karisma Hotels Adriatic Montenegro occupies, as they stated, a dominant position in the tourist offer of Ulcinj, which was contributed by the first phase of the complex Holiday Village Montenegro. The offer of the first phase includes two gorgeous hotels: Holiday Village Montenegro and The Long Beach Hotel Montenegro.

“With Ulcinj old town where pirates once roamed just 5 km away, miles of beaches to be explored and terrific sights to take in, our guests will surely have an experience like no other in this magical part of the Adriatic coast,” said the Karisma representatives.

This successful group also manages the Wind Rose Resort located in Bar.

The Wind Rose Resort by Karisma, a 21st century 4-star luxury hotel in Dobra Voda, represents one of Montenegro’s most stunning settings. Its great location allows guests to fully experience everything Montenegro has to offer – from ancient Bar, Lake Skadar, Ada Bojana to cosmopolitan Porto Montenegro and the Croatian Riviera. This family-friendly resort provides the highest standards of comfort and unmatched travel experience at a unique location where a myriad of benevolent winds come together.

"Together with its strategic partner TUI, within the last year, Karisma organized over 140 international flights to the airports in Tivat and Podgorica. Numerous awards, among which are those obtained from TripAdvisor and Trivvy, testify to the success of Karisma's offer, "the management said.

Read more about tourism offer of Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.

22 June 2019 - Zsuzsanna Hargitai, director for the Western Balkans at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has said that the countries of the region will need almost two hundred years to catch up with the average income level of the EU member states if their progress continues in such a slow pace.

Speaking in an interview with Serbian weekly Business Magazine (Nira Press), the Western Balkans director said that complex business regulations and the state capture of public enterprises were the main reasons why the Western Balkans lag behind, adding that the course, however, could change.

Ms Hargitai emphasized that the less involvement of the state and more investment in infrastructure were the primary tasks of the EBRD when it comes to helping the region.

“This (current state), however, can and should change because the countries of the Western Balkans have well-educated people who can be productive as their peers in Western Europe. Better institutions, less government interference, more investment in infrastructure - these are the most important tasks and the EBRD is there to help in all areas,” Hargitai emphasized.

She also explained that the EBRD representatives would like to see improved preparation and implementation of projects in public infrastructure projects - which would contribute to faster achievement of tangible results in this area.

One year ago, Zsuzsanna Hargitai was appointed as Regional Director for the Western Balkans at the EBRD and in one of her first statements, she announced that she would seek to increase EBRD's investments and support in the field of economic policy on the path of the countries of the Western Balkans towards the European Union. She also stated that the process of EU accession is the main driver of reforms.

Now, a year later, Ms Hargitai says that already in the past year, the volume of EBRD investments has increased to close to 400 million, while at the same time, they continued with activities to improve the policy framework.

Read more about the business environment in Montenegro at TMN's dedicated page.