The Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Policy and Minister of Economic Development Nik Gjeloshaj met with the British Ambassador to Montenegro Dawn McKen and the Director of the British Council for the Western Balkans, Clare Sears.

During the meeting, participants highlighted the robust partnership between Montenegro and the United Kingdom, emphasizing the UK’s significant support for Montenegro throughout its NATO accession process and in various reform, democratic, and pro-Western initiatives. They also pointed out the importance of the creative economy, with Gjeloshaj expressing his endorsement of the embassy’s initiatives in this area.

Deputy Prime Minister Gjeloshaj particularly recognized the dedication, expertise, and genuine support provided by the British Embassy in the formulation of the Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Free Zones.

By incorporating British experts into the Working Group responsible for developing the Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Free Zones, we aim to strengthen the legal framework governing free zones through collaborative efforts and in a spirit of alliance, aligning it with the highest and most contemporary European and Western standards, stated Gjeloshaj.

He also noted the notable rise in foreign direct investment from the United Kingdom into Montenegro over the previous year, alongside productive foreign trade exchanges, serving as a solid foundation for expanding cooperation in other sectors, particularly tourism, innovation, and education.

Ambassador McKen commended the dedicated work of the Ministry of Economic Development in forming the Working Group for the Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Free Zones and expressed her full support for its ongoing activities to ensure the group’s success and effectiveness.