Despite numerous challenges, the government is doing everything it can to preserve production and quality jobs at the Nikšić Steelworks, stated Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, adding that the factory has been nominated for the EU’s SAFE program.
Spajić visited the Nikšić factory today at the request of the workers. According to a statement from the government, he discussed the factory’s results and the problems it faces with employees and members of the Board of Directors.
“Is the problem of the Steelworks solved forever? No. But despite various challenges, production and quality jobs must be preserved. Finally, we are seeing the first signs of sustainable production—moving from last year’s 0.8MW to today’s 3.4MW. We need to have faith in our capabilities, and we are showing that we can do better,” Spajić said.
He added that the government has nominated the Steelworks as a “dual-use” manufacturing facility within the SAFE program.
Spajić emphasized that much work remains for the Nikšić factory to fully utilize its capacity.
“We will try to attract other partners who can assist us in this demanding task, but first and foremost, we must believe in our own capabilities and in this collective that strives for progress. You have the support of the Ministry and the Government,” said Spajić.
He also expressed concern that Swiss company 8B Capital S.A. has not fulfilled its contractual obligations despite warnings and initiatives from the relevant authorities.
“We will do everything and use all legal means to ensure that obligations are met. If that doesn’t happen, we know what comes next,” Spajić stressed.
The Steelworks’ employees and members of the Board of Directors thanked Spajić for his visit, stating that the workers want production to continue and that the key to this is the support of the parent company and the government.
They highlighted that they expect this support in order to find a credible investor and restart the metallurgical part of the factory.
