Italy continues to be a vital partner for Montenegro in its pursuit of economic growth, political stability and EU integration, according to Nina Drakić, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro (PKCG).
At the Economic Dialogue Montenegro-Italy roundtable, Drakić highlighted the centuries-old friendship and cooperation between the two nations, sharing common values, goals, and history. She emphasized the importance of Montenegro modeling its economy on Italy’s diversified sectors—ranging from services, industry, machinery, fashion, energy, agriculture, to gastronomy. This, she stated, could help Montenegro achieve greater economic resilience and competitiveness.
The event, organized by the Italian Embassy in Montenegro and the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) office in Podgorica in partnership with PKCG, aimed to connect entrepreneurs from both countries, fostering exchanges and creating new business opportunities. Drakić expressed confidence that Montenegro has a lot to offer in tourism, agriculture, energy, and trade, which Italy recognizes.
Italian Ambassador to Montenegro, Andreina Marsella, noted that the event stemmed from a September visit by Italian Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, during which discussions were held about fostering business ties between Italian companies and Montenegro. She expressed hope that the B2B and B2G meetings held at the event would yield tangible results.
Antonio Ventresca, Director of the ICE Office in Belgrade and Podgorica, emphasized that the event marked the start of long-term collaboration between the two nations, not just a one-off gathering. He shared that Italy is already involved in projects across design, culinary arts, and agro-food sectors, with the aim of turning contacts into concrete business ventures.
Montenegrin ministers also participated in the roundtable, presenting key infrastructure and energy projects, and highlighting areas for potential collaboration with Italy. Minister of Ecology Damjan Ćulafić focused on waste management and its role in transitioning to a circular economy, while Minister of Energy Admir Šahmanović discussed Montenegro’s regulatory improvements in the energy sector and ongoing solar and wind energy projects. Minister of Tourism Simonida Kordić stressed Montenegro’s commitment to sustainable tourism, especially on the country’s northern region, which remains an underutilized area with significant potential.
The event concluded with presentations from Italian business associations and firms, followed by B2B and B2G meetings to facilitate direct contact between Italian and Montenegrin entrepreneurs and institutional representatives.
