Montenegro’s parliament is expected to debate two agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday, covering tourism, real estate development, and broader economic cooperation. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić on Wednesday requested amendments to the agenda to include the ratification of the deals.
In a letter to Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandić, Spajić proposed legislation to approve a bilateral agreement on tourism and real estate development, as well as a second agreement focused on economic cooperation between the two governments.
Meanwhile, MP Vasilije Čarapić of the ruling Europe Now Movement (PES) submitted an amendment requiring parliamentary ratification of any future contract with a UAE investor involving state-owned assets.
“This amendment resolves any legal ambiguity related to the management of public assets and ensures effective governance in the public interest,” the proposal states.
Public Works Minister Majda Adžović told national broadcaster TVCG that Montenegro should enter the UAE-backed project as a co-investor, warning against leasing state property “for 15, 30, or 50 cents.”
Earlier in the day, President Jakov Milatović met with Ulcinj Mayor Genci Nimanbegu and voiced concern that the agreements may undermine key national laws. He criticized the government’s push for a rushed parliamentary vote, calling it “irresponsible.”
Milatović has formally asked the European Commission to assess whether the agreements align with EU legal standards. Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier confirmed receipt of the request.
“We are aware of the cooperation agreement Montenegro signed with the UAE. We have received the president’s letter and will respond in due course. At Montenegro’s request, the Commission can assess the agreement’s compatibility with EU law,” Mercier told TVCG.
Ulcinj Mayor Nimanbegu warned lawmakers that those who support the agreements would be considered “enemies of Ulcinj.” He has also requested an urgent meeting with the parliament speaker.
Ivan Vujović of the opposition European Alliance coalition accused the government of repeating past mistakes.
“This deal introduces even worse practices, including constitutional concerns, disregard for local communities, lack of public consultation, and fast-tracked parliamentary procedures,” Vujović said.
However, PES leadership defended the move. Filip Radulović, a senior party official, said the UAE agreements represented a “major opportunity” for Montenegro, citing similar projects like Porto Montenegro, Portonovi, and Luštica Bay that brought “tangible benefits” to the economy.
“Montenegro is more than ready for new investments, jobs, and a higher standard of living,” he said. “The UAE partnership reflects the government’s commitment to unlocking the country’s tourism potential through credible international cooperation.”
A protest organized by the “Big Beach or Big Lie” coalition is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. outside parliament, opposing the government’s attempt to fast-track the agreements.
“This is an attempt to push through a multi-billion-dollar deal without public debate, transparency, or legal procedures,” the coalition said in a statement, warning of potential harm to public interest and the country’s natural resources.
