CEB approves €83 million loan to strengthen Montenegro’s healthcare system

Budva, Montenegro - During its annual Joint Meeting hosted by the Government of Montenegro, the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) approved a €83 million loan to support the government's 2023-2027 Healthcare Strategy.

Key infrastructure projects financed by the CEB loan include the construction of entirely new facilities to enhance healthcare services across Montenegro:

• Pljevlja General Hospital, which will replace outdated existing facilities and serve the northern region of the country.
• The City Kvart Health Centre in Podgorica, which aims to improve primary healthcare services in the capital.
• The Hematology Clinic within the Clinical Center of Montenegro in Podgorica, which will expand access to specialised care.

Beyond infrastructure, the project will support nationwide modernisation efforts, including investments in state-of-the-art medical equipment - such as MRI and CT scanners.

Montenegro's Minister of Health, Dr Vojislav Šimun, stated: "We are deeply grateful for the continued cooperation and support of the Council of Europe Development Bank. The impact these projects will have on the citizens of Montenegro is immeasurable - both in the area of primary and secondary healthcare, as well as in modern diagnostics. A particularly important segment is the construction of the Hematology Clinic and the introduction of PET-CT diagnostics as part of this project, considering that Montenegro currently does not have its own PET-CT scanner and refers patients abroad for diagnostics. This project lays the foundation for a modern, accessible, and high-quality healthcare system in our country."

"This loan approved today underscores the CEB's strong commitment to enhancing access to quality healthcare for all citizens of Montenegro. By financing modern medical infrastructure and digital solutions, we are helping to build a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system," said CEB Governor Carlo Monticelli.

The modernisation efforts will strengthen Montenegro's healthcare system, improve service delivery, and address gaps in care, making it possible to meet evolving needs. Additionally, they will improve working conditions for medical professionals, facilitating better service delivery.

The CEB applies a vulnerability lens to all its project investments to ensure they benefit vulnerable and underserved populations, including low-income households, rural communities, displaced individuals, and persons with disabilities. By addressing disparities in healthcare access, the project will help strengthen social equity and cohesion in Montenegro.

In addition to this healthcare loan, the CEB approved a €10 million microfinance project to expand financial inclusion for vulnerable groups.

The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is a multilateral development bank, whose unique mission is to promote social cohesion in its 43 member states across Europe. The CEB finances investment in social sectors, including education, health and affordable housing, with a focus on the needs of vulnerable people. Borrowers include governments, local and regional authorities, public and private banks, non-profit organisations and others. As a multilateral bank with an excellent credit rating, the CEB funds itself on the international capital markets. It approves projects according to strict social, environmental and governance criteria, and provides technical assistance. In addition, the CEB receives funds from donors to complement its activities.