On Sunday, during a teleconference session, the Montenegrin Government approved a proposal for a joint letter to the European Commission. The letter, endorsed by the majority of members, underscores the importance of the Belgrade – Bar railway line and highlights the roles of Montenegro’s Ministry of Transport and Serbia’s Ministry of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure.
The letter seeks the European Commission’s support for the reconstruction of the remaining section of Railway Route 4 in Montenegro.
It notes that recent years have seen significant investments aimed at reconstructing and modernizing the railway network, efforts that would have been challenging without the European Union’s backing.
“We wish to inform you that the Belgrade – Bar railway project, specifically the Valjevo – Vrbnica section in Serbia, holds national and economic importance for both Serbia and Montenegro. This project is strategically crucial for both nations as it forms part of Route 4, which connects southwestern Serbia with Corridor X on one side and the Port of Bar in Montenegro on the other. Route 4 has recently been integrated into the Western Balkans – Eastern Mediterranean Corridor, further emphasizing its significance,” the joint statement from the ministries reads.
The letter also highlights Montenegro’s ongoing efforts to reconstruct the entire Railway Route 4. – “Significant progress has been made with much of the route already reconstructed, aiming to revitalize what was once a key economic corridor for the region. Recently granted non-repayable funds for the Golubovci – Bar section and the preparatory work for its reconstruction reflect a strong commitment to increasing the Port of Bar’s utilization and fostering intermodal development in line with EU policies and recommendations,” the letter continues.
Montenegrin Transport Minister Maja Vukićević began her official visit to Serbia yesterday. Vukićević, along with Deputy Prime Minister Milun Zogović and their teams, is on the first official visit to Serbia, invited by Serbian Minister of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure Goran Vesić.
During their visit, Vukićević and Vesić signed the joint letter to the European Commission, emphasizing the importance of the Belgrade – Bar railway line and the need for continued support for the investment cycle focused on modernizing the railway infrastructure in both countries.