site.btaPrime Minister Spajic Confers with Bulgarian Ambassador to Montenegro

Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajic received on Wednesday Bulgarian Ambassador Stefan Dimitrov and welcomed him saying that given the excellent bilateral relations, the cultural and historical affinity between the two peoples, Bulgaria’s support for the European integration of Montenegro is highly appreciated. Prime Minister Spajic added that Bulgaria could be "a good advocate for Montenegro in the European Union". 

Ambassador Dimitrov congratulated the Prime Minister on his assumption of office and expressed hope that the excellent cooperation between the two countries will be enhanced in certain areas. Ambassador Dimitrov informed his host that Bulgaria remains firmly committed to supporting Montenegro's European integration and is ready to provide expert assistance in the negotiation process for full EU membership. He hailed the achievements of the Montenegrin government in the first two months in office. 

During talks Ambassador Dimitrov said that economic ties, cultural relations and partnership in the field of tourism lag behind the political relations. He highlighted the lack of a direct flight between Sofia and Podgorica as a major problem, as well as the possible approaches to solve the problem of the lack of air transport connectivity between the two countries. 

Prime Minister Spajic agreed, saying that achieving connectivity between Podgorica and Sofia should be a priority, because this will be a facilitation not only for tourists, but also for business. He said that this could be done in two ways - first through the completion of the Bar-Boljare highway by 2030 and second, through a direct air link between the two capitals. The Prime Minister said that he has already instructed the national air operator to study the possibilities. He added that he would also hold talks with the Turkish airlines. 

Development assistance, under which Bulgaria has been financing a number of projects in Montenegro since 2019, was also discussed. Ambassador Dimitrov said that so far ten projects have been implemented in Montenegro for a total amount of over EUR 400, 000 and three more are to receive funding this year. Prime Minister Spajic appreciated the financial support received as an exceptionally friendly gesture.