The Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovation and Investments (Hamag-Bicro) and the Montenegrin Chamber of Commerce signed a cooperation agreement on Tuesday aimed at achieving common interests and strengthening the economies of both countries, the two institutions reported.

In a press release, it is noted that with the transfer of know-how, experience and best practices, Hamag-Bicro and the Montenegrin Chamber of Commerce will endeavour to contribute to the improvement of existing SMEs in both countries, set up mutual cooperation and realise projects that can contribute to advancing individual companies using all available national, European and other funds.

The agreement was signed by the president of Montenegro’s chamber, Nina Drakic, and Hamag-Bicro president Vjeran Vrbanec.

Drakic said that the signing meant a step towards expanding services offered to the chamber’s members.

Today’s agreement on the transfer of know-how and experience will bring new know-how that is particularly important for strengthening the competitiveness of our small businesses with an emphasis on the context of using European funds and access to finance in general, she said.

She underscored that Hamag-Bicro’s activities represent something that is still ahead of Montenegro’s chamber and business community.

Vrbanec said that by signing the agreement Hamag-Bicro has expressed its strong support for the growth and development of Montenegro’s economy.

“Our two countries share a wealth of natural riches and strong tourism potential as well as commercial capacities. Hence, we believe that European funds would contribute to Montenegro’s further development. Strengthening all countries in the region is in all our interest so we can have an economically strong, prosperous region,” he underscored.