Minister of Transport, Maja Vukićević, participated in a panel discussion with regional and European ministers, sharing updates on railway project developments.
She noted that Montenegro has secured significant funding for the repair and modernization of the Bar-Vrbnica railway line (Route 4), enabling the continuation of reconstruction that began in 2009. With previously allocated resources, Montenegro anticipates having a fully renovated section of Route 4 in the near future. In June of this year, a contract was signed for the procurement of new electric multiple units for the needs of AD “Željeznici prevoz Crne Gore,” which will be used for domestic transport.
Additionally, Vukićević mentioned the recent opening of the joint railway station in Bijelo Polje, housing the joint administrations of Montenegro and Serbia to reduce train wait times at border crossings. The control time for trains has been reduced by approximately 40 minutes. Together with Minister Vesić, she sent a joint letter to the European Commission requesting financial support for the renovation of part of Route 4 in Serbia, encouraging all stakeholders to back this initiative for its positive impact on regional connectivity and integration with the European Union.
Investing in the infrastructure of the Port of Bar and the associated railway network is seen as crucial for long-term benefits for both Montenegro and Serbia. The planned projects aim to enhance the capacity of the Port of Bar and eliminate bottlenecks in the railway network, making goods transport more efficient and attracting new clients, given the port’s strategic location at the entrance to the Adriatic Sea.
Vukićević emphasized that without adequate investment in infrastructure, discussions about further cooperation with neighboring countries and the EU would be challenging. She pointed out that railway renovation is just one aspect of modernization, and that regional countries should follow Montenegro and Serbia’s example in seeking financial support for enhancing the overall railway network.
Regarding administrative barriers, the preparation of a new Railway Law is nearing completion. This law aligns with relevant EU regulations concerning market opening, recognition of foreign operators, and collaboration between national infrastructure managers and foreign administrations to improve passenger and cargo transport organization.
