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The contractor for the second section of the Bar – Boljare highway is to be selected by spring 2025.

The Deputy Prime Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, MILUN Zogović, stated that eight companies entered the preliminary bidding process for the second section, with four making it to the shortlist.

Procedures will adhere to the guidelines set forth by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which serves as the primary financier for this initiative.

“The European Commission has allocated 100 million euros for the construction of the second section from Mateševo to Andrijevica, with a clear timeline outlined for the usage of these funds over the next four years. Additionally, we anticipate another 100 million euro donation from the European Commission for construction purposes, supplemented by a loan agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development,” Zogović mentioned, as reported by eKapija.me.

He also highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding the construction of the third section stretching 50 kilometers from Andrijevica to Boljare.

“The highway will achieve its valuable potential and all the anticipated advantages will come into play upon its full integration, facilitating not only connectivity between Montenegro and Serbia but also a route to Europe,” Zogović elaborated.

He emphasized that discussions are underway to secure financing for the complete stretch of highway from Andrijevica to Požega in accordance with Serbia’s input.

“There are still 107 kilometers in Serbia remaining for the construction of that highway. They have reassured us that they are financially prepared for the development of 75 kilometers, while they need to establish strategic partnerships to complete the project,” Zogović noted.

He underscored that the northern regions of Montenegro will reap the most benefits once the highway is completed, even though he observes that investment in this area has been considerably delayed.

“We are committed to bridging the gap in regional development. The north should no longer serve merely as a resource extraction zone, which has yielded no real benefits to local communities. We have seen ineffective concessions for 30 years where favored concessionaires received benefits under dubious conditions, making any termination of their contracts financially burdensome for the state,” Zogović explained.

Concerning the concession of Montenegro’s airport, Zogović announced that a public tender will be issued shortly, with the process already at an advanced stage.