The Executive Director of the Railway Infrastructure of Montenegro (ŽICG), Marina Bošković, announced readiness to engage in discussions with the train conductors who initiated traffic suspensions this morning, while firmly stating they will not yield to coercive tactics.

This statement comes in light of the halted train operations, driven by a faction of workers demanding better wages.

Bošković has also made a formal request for trains carrying vehicles belonging to foreign nationals to be allowed to pass, noting that some of these vehicles are transporting essential medications and food for children, and that diplomatic representatives of certain countries have already reached out to request such passages.

She expressed regret to the public for the unlawful actions taken by some ŽICG staff and mentioned that while they are open to dialogue, they cannot meet all the demands put forward.

“ŽICG employs 800 individuals, yet only 85 have endorsed this initiative. I urge the protesting group to cease their disruptive actions,” Bošković asserted during a press conference.

She reiterated her willingness to engage in discussions and emphasized her refusal to accept ultimatums.

Bošković committed to doing everything possible to enable the passage of trains carrying the vehicles of foreign nationals, stating that work on this issue remains ongoing.

“The strike is unlawful, and none of the necessary legal protocols have been observed. Our budget is constrained, and we lack the financial resources to accommodate every demand,” she clarified.

She warned that those who halted operations unlawfully would face repercussions, noting that not all 85 individuals who signed the initiative participated in the protest.

Workers at the Podgorica station reported that train operations had been suspended in all cities.

In the ŽICG premises with families and infants

In a video address, Bošković reiterated her apology to both citizens and foreign visitors, some of whom include families with infants located within the company’s premises. She made a heartfelt appeal to resume the operation of trains transporting vehicles belonging to foreign nationals.

“I urge all parties to consider the human aspect. I find myself among those housed in our facilities because they are unable to access their vehicles which contain necessary medications. We have a passenger in dire need of baby food, which is currently in one of those cars. I’ve also received inquiries from several ambassadors, particularly concerning a student who requires insulin that is in his vehicle,” Bošković stated, emphasizing that these vehicles hold the personal property of foreign citizens.

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