Vitimirović: Development of Traffic is Key to the Progress of Cluster 4

The State Secretary in the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development, head of the Working Group for Chapter 27 and Montenegro's negotiator for Cluster 4, Nenad Vitomirović, assessed that the development of traffic should be viewed as part of a broader process of connecting Montenegro with the European Union. Speaking about the air accessibility of our country, the increase in the number of passengers, and the introduction of new airline routes, he stated that, according to data from Montenegro Airports, the airports in Podgorica and Tivat have seen growth from the beginning of the year to September 9. Regarding road traffic, Vitomirović said that aligning with EU rules opens up prospects for Montenegrin carriers to access a larger and legally safer market, but also brings increased competition and adaptation costs. From the perspective of Cluster 4, sector preparation involves not only the implementation of market and safety rules but also gradually increasing energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and adopting modern technologies. Chapter 14 in this sector covers ship safety and navigation, crew training, flag state supervision, inspection of foreign ships, port safety, traffic monitoring, maritime accident investigation, and passenger rights. Chapter 21 supports port infrastructure connectivity with European road and rail corridors, Chapter 14 regulates safety, market, and operational standards of transport, while issues of energy efficiency, cleaner fuels, emission reduction, and marine ecosystem protection are linked to Chapters 15 and 27.