The Pan-Albanian Federation of America “VATRA” expresses its deep concern and strong opposition to the tendering process and agreement for the development of beaches in Ulcinj by the private company “Eagle Hills,” which is backed by capital from the United Arab Emirates. According to recent reports, “Eagle Hills” has obtained the right to manage nine out of 19 beaches on the Plazhi i Madh – Velika Plaža (Long Beach) in Ulcinj until the year 2028, following a tendering process that has sparked significant controversy and concern among the local community and relevant institutions.
The Mayor of Ulcinj has strongly criticized the way this process was conducted, describing it as a “pre-planned scenario” that has been carried out without transparency and in contradiction with the interests of the citizens of Ulcinj.
Moreover, it has been reported that the company “Eagle Hills Montenegro” was registered in Montenegro in March of this year with a symbolic capital of just one euro, raising serious doubts about its long-term capabilities and intentions in the region.
Rightfully, this risky project has been denounced by several political parties, as well as by President Jakov Milatović. It has met with serious opposition from civil society, environmental organizations, and several institutions that have pointed to violations of existing laws to facilitate a development project of such scale.
According to the government, the agreement is expected to bring investments worth around €30 billion, but the authorities have not provided any information regarding the basis for these projections.
“VATRA” emphasizes the importance of preserving the integrity of the tendering and economic development processes, by upholding local laws and ensuring full transparency at every step.
We call on the Montenegrin authorities to review this agreement, to take into account the concerns of the local community, and to ensure that any development project aligns with national and community interests.
Dr. Elmi Berisha
President
Pan-Albanian Federation of America “VATRA”