Prime Minister Holds Meeting with Employees of Nikšić Steel Plant
Spajić: We must safeguard production and jobs – we have a strategy that includes the EU’s SAFE programme
In light of various challenges, the Government of Montenegro is committed to preserving production and employment at the Nikšić Steel Plant, which has recently been nominated for the European Union’s SAFE programme, as announced today by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić.
Responding to requests from the workforce, Prime Minister Spajić visited the plant in Nikšić to discuss operational results and ongoing challenges with employees and Board of Directors members.
Is the situation with the steel plant completely resolved? No. However, amidst numerous challenges, we must continue to sustain production and retain quality jobs. We are witnessing signs of sustainable production for the first time, increasing from 0.8MW last year to 3.4MW today. We need to have faith in our own capabilities and in our potential for improvement – and we are demonstrating just that, stated the Prime Minister.
He noted that the Government has also categorized the steel plant as a “dual use” facility under the European Union’s SAFE programme.
Prime Minister Spajić highlighted that there remains considerable work ahead to maximize the plant’s capabilities.
We will strive to attract additional partners to assist us in this challenging task, but above all, we must trust in our own abilities and in this dedicated workforce that is eager for progress. You have the unwavering support of the Ministry and the Government, said Spajić.
He also voiced concern over the Swiss firm 8B Capital S.A., which has not fulfilled its contractual obligations despite notices and initiatives from the relevant authorities.
We will exhaust all available legal avenues to ensure that commitments are met. If not, our subsequent actions will be clear, the Prime Minister affirmed.
Workers and Board members expressed their appreciation to Prime Minister Spajić for his visit, asserting their commitment to maintaining production and emphasizing the importance of support from both the parent company and the Government.
They underscored the necessity of this support to attract a credible investor and revitalize the metallurgical section of the plant.
