Montenegro has called for alternative solutions following reports that the European Commission has requested the removal of two countries from its visa-free regime by the end of this month.
However, the reports didn’t mention the names of these two countries, Schengen.News reports.
In response to these claims, Montenegro’s government said the obligation to change its visa policy as part of the EU accession process brings a challenge to its tourism sector after it would be required to impose entry restrictions on countries that are key tourist sources.
Through a statement provided on Wednesday, the government of Montenegro said that facilitated entry rules for tourists and investors are very important for the sustainability of the country’s tourism sector.
In the current global circumstances, the access to new markets and the easier arrival of tourists and investors are of key importance for the sustainability of Montenegrin tourism which contributes 26 per cent of the GDP. The clear economic interest is precisely the main reason why Montenegro has established a visa-free regime with a certain number of states.
Montenegro Calls for Alternative Solutions
According to a report from See News, the European Commission called on Montenegro to remove two countries from its visa-free regime list by the end of February to receive funding for its growth plan under the EU’s €6-billion ($6.3 billion) Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans for 2024-2027.
However, Montenegro emphasized that it is important to find alternative solutions to ensure an easier transition in its economy, once the Balkan country fully applies the EU visa requirements in the coming two years on its pathway to becoming the 28th EU country by 2028.
In partnership with the EU, we will continue to seek the best solutions that will simultaneously meet our national economic interests and the obligations we have in the EU accession process, including the gradual cancellation of visa-free regime for countries whose citizens need visas to enter the EU. This regime will be completely aligned to the EU one by the time Montenegro becomes an EU member state.
Russia, Azerbaijan & Türkiye Significant Contributors to Montenegro’s Economy
Among those who can enter visa-free to Montenegro are nationals of Russia. Another country, whose nationals chose Montenegro as their favourite destination, is Azerbaijan. At the same time, Türkiye is the third largest investor in Montenegro, with about 32,000 visitors per year.
In addition, according to a report from See News, a total of 11, 465 Turkish citizens have established residency in Montenegro.
