The European Union and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reached an agreement to commence negotiations on the Law regarding the Certificate of Cooperation in tourism and real estate development. This agreement is contingent on the approval from the Montenegrin parliament.

Yesterday, the European Commission revealed that its President, Ursula von der Leyen, had a productive telephone discussion with Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE.

During this conversation, they agreed to begin negotiations for a free trade agreement.

“This is a significant development in EU-UAE relations, and in conjunction with the growing agreements on the Strategic Partnership, it may act as a catalyst for strengthening ties between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC),” stated the European Commission.

Von der Leyen emphasized that the European Union is well-regarded for establishing high-standard trade agreements and fostering partnerships grounded in open trade and mutual benefit.

“With this mindset, the forthcoming negotiations will aim at the liberalization of goods, green hydrogen, and critical resources, with the expectation that both parties can progress swiftly. Commissioner Maroš Sefčovič will likely return to the UAE soon to continue discussions,” the EC conveyed.

The completion of this modern and ambitious agreement is viewed as a means to not only enhance EU-UAE relations but also to foster broader regional prosperity.

Online, Prime Minister Milojko Spajic remarked that by signing the agreement with the UAE, Montenegro has demonstrated itself to be a credible and reliable partner to major global players.

“We welcome the EU-UAE initiative as initiated by the European Commission, showcasing Montenegro as a trusted partner to influential global entities. It is now upon us to implement substantial projects, ensuring Montenegro’s future is as bright as it deserves!” Spajic stated.

The Governments of Montenegro and the UAE signed an Agreement on Economic Cooperation and Joint Investment on March 28, which paves the way for Mohamed Alabbar to initiate the Rizorta construction project in Ulcinj.

This development has sparked criticism from segments of the public and the non-governmental sector due to issues of transparency and the extensive duration of the land lease, which is set for 90 years.

President Jakov Milatović has expressed his expectation for the EU to decisively address the alignment of this document with EU acquis.

“This agreement involves the repeal of several significant Montenegrin laws and fundamentally conflicts with the Constitution of Montenegro. It also raises concerns within the context of the Stabilization and Association Agreement,” Milatović noted.

A coalition of 36 civil society organizations has sent letters to various recipients in Brussels, including the European Parliament and the European Commission, regarding the compliance of Montenegro’s development with the Stabilization and Association Agreement and relevant EU legal frameworks.

These organizations voiced serious concerns that the aforementioned agreement with the UAE poses a substantial threat to the rule of law, consequently impacting Montenegro’s integration process into the EU, as reported by media outlets and the NGO Network (MANS).

Legislative approval from the Assembly is required for the agreements with the UAE, with a parliamentary vote potentially taking place on Thursday.

On Thursday, Alabbar indicated that he is engaged in constructing housing in Tivat that would accommodate families, reflecting his serious commitment to enabling individuals to attain their livelihoods, which he considers a critical and valuable endeavor.