During her meeting with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations, Anna Bjerde, highlighted Montenegro as a notable example of the effective use of certain World Bank instruments.

The discussion underscored Montenegro’s significant economic reforms, which have helped to restore confidence in financial institutions and have a positive impact on the living standards of its citizens. This improvement in both minimum and average wages was facilitated by reforms in the taxation system.

In 2019, one of the World Bank’s recommendations was to lower labour taxes—a strategy that was developed and put into action. Prime Minister Spajić noted that this solution emerged from extensive social dialogue involving all relevant stakeholders, which allowed for the successful implementation of the Europe Now programs.

He expressed his appreciation to Director Bjerde for the World Bank’s technical and financial assistance on various initiatives. Furthermore, he emphasized his ongoing dedication to executing the established Partnership Framework, which supports Montenegro’s objectives of inclusive growth, promoting a green economy, ensuring strong governance, and advancing toward EU integration.

It was also mentioned that the tendering process for Montenegro’s airports, which has received support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank, is now nearing completion.

Another key topic addressed was the optimization of public administration and the development of suitable methods to reward employees who excel, meet their goals, and achieve positive outcomes.