Sattler: €150 Million for Montenegro’s highway construction

 “The European Union is investing €150 million in non-refundable grant support for the construction of the highway section from Mateševo to Andrijevica. This is not just another road. It is a key strategic investment in the future of Montenegro, particularly in the north,” stated the Ambassador of the EU to Montenegro, Johann Sattler, during the signing of the agreement for the continuation of construction on the second section (Mateševo – Andrijevica) of the Bar–Boljare highway.

Sattler stated that this is the largest grant the European Union has ever awarded to Montenegro.

“This is not simply a gift – it is both a gesture of support and a statement of expectation. When we invest European money, it means we also expect European quality. This means the project will be implemented according to the highest standards – with fair public procurement, environmental protection, respect for local communities, and transparency in the disbursement of funds. This is what citizens of Montenegro expect from their institutions. That investment is so important because it connects the south and the north; furthermore, it connects Montenegro and the wider region with the European Union – not only physically, but also through shared values and rules,” Sattler emphasised.

For the construction of this 22-kilometre section, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has approved a loan worth €200 million.

Sattler noted that this section forms part of the European transport corridor. He added that it also relates to Chapter 21, and highlighted that building this important road route by European standards represents yet another tangible step towards Montenegro’s EU membership.

Copyright: Evropska kuća

“The project we are supporting today is worth approximately €600 million in total – thanks to the partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, as well as the contribution of the state of Montenegro,” said Sattler.

Ambassador stressed that the European Union is ready to continue investing in Montenegro’s transport infrastructure.

“Montenegro rightly sees itself as a green destination – therefore, its roads should reflect that vision,” said Sattler. He added that the EU welcomes the initiative exploring the potential for solar energy along the Highway.

Copyright: Evropska kuća

During his address, the Ambassador also discussed the EU's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

“Today’s support goes hand in hand with our broader support through the EU Growth Plan. Through this initiative, we are investing nearly €400 million in the form of grants and favourable loans to create new opportunities for sustainable development across Montenegro.”

Sattler also noted that Montenegro is expected to join the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) in October this year, which represents a significant step forward.

“We are talking about clear and concrete examples of how Montenegro’s European path is already bringing real benefits to its citizens and its economy,” said Sattler.

He expressed his gratitude to all those who had worked for months to make this moment possible.

“This is a shared success that shows when we act according to European principles – of quality, openness and cooperation – we achieve real results,” concluded Sattler.