Montenegro must protect the area of Saline Ulcinj, said Aivo Orav, chief of EU Delegation in Podgorica. Opening of Chapter 27 pertaining to the environment will depend on the readiness of both EU and Montenegro.

He could not be precise on the date of the opening, because it depends on both sides.

„If the members decide we are now ready to open the Chapter, it will happen. But both sides must be prepared“, Orav said to MINA Agency.

He said that the protection of Saline Ulcinj, potential area of Natura 2000, is being postponed.

„Montenegro must be determined and implement urgent actions in order to protect this area. There needs to be a long-term solution for the management of this area“, Orav said.

According to him, environment is one of the most expensive and challenging areas for the politicians who are not always interested in dealing with this field.

„I think it is very good that EU insists on this matter. This field is not so tangible, but it concerns all of us“, he added.

Air and water pollution knows no state limits. Orav believes that Chapter 27 is important, and the work should be done in this field even before opening of the Chapter.

„Each citizen of Montenegro will benefit from clean air and water. Conditions of good water and air management, as well as good handling of waste, brings long-term benefits to everyone“, Orav said.

Source: Cafe del Montenegro