The cooperation agreement in tourism and real estate development between Montenegro and the Emirates invalidates key laws in our country, making it illegal, stated the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović.

While in Ulcinj, he met with the Mayor Gencij Nimanbegu, the President of the Municipal Assembly Ivana Popović, Vice President Petar Delić, the Secretary for Urbanism Škeljzen Sulejmani, and several representatives from various councilors’ clubs.

Milatović conveyed an “important message” after discussions with all elected representatives in Ulcinj, affirming his support for the citizens of Ulcinj, particularly regarding the agreement with the UAE.

“Everyone in Ulcinj welcomes investments, a sentiment echoed by all citizens’ representatives from different political backgrounds today. However, every investment in Ulcinj or Montenegro must be grounded in two essential factors: adherence to Montenegrin laws and responsiveness to the citizens’ needs. My position on the cooperation agreement with the UAE is clear. This agreement fundamentally undermines key Montenegrin laws. Any agreement that negates Montenegrin laws is illegal, as it contradicts our Constitution and the local community’s expressed opposition to such investments,” Milatović emphasized, according to his cabinet.

He noted that reviewing the agreement raises concerns about its compliance with the essential provisions of the Stabilization and Association Agreement with Montenegro, adding doubt to its alignment with Montenegro’s European ambitions.

“Following the citizens’ suggestions presented through their elected representatives, we face a declaration tomorrow that disregards established democratic procedures of the Montenegrin Parliament, which we only became aware of today. I find this to be extremely frivolous and irresponsible, contrary to the local community’s needs and the state’s interests,” Milatović stated.

He reminded that he had previously urged waiting for the European Commission’s stance on this issue.

“I can confirm that last week, for the first time as president, I reached out to the Commissioner for Enlargement on behalf of the citizens whose interests I represent in Montenegro, asking for clarity on whether the agreement that is now presented as a law aligns with the EU’s acquis communautaire. I have called on the legislators to await clear stances from competent authorities, like the Agency for the Protection of Competition and the Agency for the Prevention of Corruption, who have provided opinions lately. Today, I urge them again — we need their perspective on whether the agreement complies with the law. This matter affects not just the citizens of Ulcinj. My concern for them extends to every corner of Montenegro,” said Milatović.

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