Zogović and Sattler travel by train to Bijelo Polje for the opening of Europe House

Deputy Prime Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Milun Zogović, together with State Secretary of the Ministry of Transport Savo Ašanin, Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro Johann Sattler, and associates, will attend the opening of the Europe House in Bijelo Polje.

As part of the celebration of the Europe House opening, a special journey was organized on an EU-branded train from Podgorica to Bijelo Polje to highlight sustainable mobility and the European Union's Green Agenda.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Zogović emphasized that rail transport holds a special place in Montenegro's development. He stated that it connects the north and south, allows people to travel faster, safer, and more environmentally friendly, and at the same time symbolizes the country's European orientation. The Podgorica-Bijelo Polje line is one of the most important for domestic connectivity and regional integration. Zogović highlighted that, although Montenegro faces infrastructure challenges requiring substantial investment, the Government clearly recognizes the railway as a key pillar of sustainable transport and as a sector where the European path is best reflected.

With the support of European partners, over €200 million has been invested in this sector in recent years through loans, grants, and public funds - primarily as part of the reconstruction projects of the Bar-Podgorica-Vrbnica railway line, financially supported by the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the European Union through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). These investments have increased the efficiency, safety, and reliability of rail transport, progressively integrating Montenegro into European transport corridors. Zogović emphasized that these projects are not just infrastructure investments - they are investments in Montenegro's future, economic stability, and regional connectivity.

Currently, a major project for the reconstruction of the Bar-Golubovci section, valued at approximately €220 million, is underway. This project will significantly improve capacity and traffic safety on the southern part of the line, particularly towards the Port of Bar. Additionally, the rehabilitation of 13 steel bridges, 8 tunnels, and 20 km of track on the Lutovo-Bratonožići-Bioče section, as well as the modernization of depots and workshops for rolling stock maintenance, is ongoing, with a total value of €80 million. EU grants amounting to €148 million have been approved through WBIF to finance both projects. The remaining funds are partly secured through an EIB loan and will be supplemented by additional loans from the EIB and EBRD.

Today's train ride from Podgorica to Bijelo Polje carries strong symbolism. It demonstrates Montenegro's commitment to northern development, balanced regional development, and a European future. The opening of the Europe House in Bijelo Polje is not just a ceremony - it confirms that, together with our European partners, we are building infrastructure, institutions, and values that will provide our citizens with a better and safer life, concluded Zogović.