During its 67th session, led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, the Montenegrin Cabinet approved the Draft Law on Ratification of the Agreement on Air Services between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This law aims to enhance bilateral economic collaboration between Montenegro and Azerbaijan in key areas such as tourism, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, transportation, and infrastructure. The agreement, which was signed on 4 February 2023, will take effect once both parties finalize their internal legal procedures. Until that time, the multilateral European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) Agreement will remain active. The agreement covers aspects of air traffic cooperation, including aviation security and safety, tariff regulations, user fees, and provisions for direct transit. Designated airlines from Montenegro and Azerbaijan will be permitted to operate an unlimited number of weekly passenger and cargo flights in both directions, without any restrictions on capacity or aircraft type.

The Cabinet also approved a Decree amending the existing Decree on the establishment of internal audit in the public sector, ensuring alignment with the Decree on the organization and functioning of state administration. These amendments consider the nature, extent, and unique characteristics of public sector operations. It was highlighted that the number of budget users at the central level now required to have a dedicated internal audit unit has increased from 23 to 31 due to the reorganization of state administration, involving more ministries and directorates.

The Cabinet reviewed and adopted the Information regarding the conservation status and ongoing activities in the Special Nature Reserve “Tivat Salina” for 2024. According to data from the Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management, derived from monitoring programs, projects, and activities, along with reports from other institutions and NGOs, it was found that the conservation status of Tivat Salina has been maintained since its designation as a protected area in 2008. Furthermore, proactive management has improved the condition of the reserve.

Understanding the significance of Montenegro’s EU accession journey, the Cabinet adopted the Information on appointing a national IPA coordinator. In accordance with European Commission stipulations and the Framework Financial Agreement for IPA III, the Government designated Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević as the national IPA coordinator. This decision was made based on her professional qualifications and experience, ensuring the effective and continuous management of EU funds.

The Cabinet also approved the Report on the activities of the Commission assessing damage from natural disasters for the period from August to December 2024. The report indicates that the Commission made 1,162 decisions during this timeframe, with 1,082 of them executed, while 80 remain pending due to erroneous bank account details provided by municipal commissions or individuals. A total of €378,776 was disbursed from the state budget, with the average compensation amounting to €350 per claim. The Commission remains focused on delivering financial aid to affected citizens while ensuring prudent budget management.

In an effort to optimize public administration and cut budget expenditures, the Cabinet passed a Decision establishing a Commission to analyze and monitor service and temporary employment contracts within budget-funded entities. Given the substantial budget allocations for such contracts and the necessity to streamline public administration, the Government initiated a plan to reduce these expenditures by 20% by year-end. The Commission will evaluate the necessity of current and prospective contracts, ensure regulation compliance, and assess financial allocations for these engagements. Furthermore, all budget-funded entities must obtain prior approval from the Commission (for the justification of contracts) and the Ministry of Finance (for budget availability) before entering into service or temporary employment contracts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at rationalizing spending and optimizing government administration while further lowering state budget expenditures.