H.E. Khamis Rashed Al Shemeili, UAE Ambassador to Montenegro
Ambassador Al Shemeili on UAE–Montenegro cooperation in energy, innovation and sustainable growth
Relations between the United Arab Emirates and Montenegro are entering a new phase, evolving from strong diplomatic ties into a broader strategic partnership encompassing energy, investment, infrastructure, tourism and innovation. Recent high-level engagements and new agreements are creating tangible opportunities for cooperation, with sustainability and long-term economic development at the centre of the agenda. A defining milestone is the partnership between Masdar and Montenegro’s national power utility, EPCG, which aims to develop up to 2 GW of renewable energy capacity across solar, wind, hydropower, battery storage and hybrid solutions. The first 150 MW of solar projects are already advancing towards implementation. In this interview for Diplomacy, Ambassador Al Shemeili discusses Montenegro’s investment potential, the expanding energy partnership, the role of innovation and artificial intelligence, and the UAE’s vision of a forward-looking relationship that can contribute not only to both countries, but also to the wider Balkan region.
How would you assess the current state of bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Montenegro?
Bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Montenegro are robust and continue to grow stronger, based on mutual trust, respect, and a shared commitment to progress and prosperity. Regular high-level engagements between our leaderships have significantly advanced our partnership by deepening dialogue and opening new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors, delivering tangible benefits for both our peoples. This enduring engagement is reinforced by an expanding economic partnership. The positive momentum is evident in a series of agreements and high-level engagements. Notably, the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Energy, signed in November 2025, establishes a forward-looking partnership focused on renewable energy sources, modern infrastructure and advanced technologies. Recent interactions, including the productive high-level engagements during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in January 2026 and the World Governments Summit in February 2026, have further deepened this collaboration. These discussions have underscored our joint commitment to concrete initiatives in key sectors such as green energy, tourism, infrastructure and innovation. Together, these efforts are generating tangible opportunities that benefit both nations, fostering sustainable growth, enhanced trade and longterm economic ties grounded in shared values and a common vision. The UAE stands as a steadfast partner to Montenegro as it pursues its path towards economic advancement and sustainability. We remain committed to deepening and expanding this collaboration, ensuring that it continues to deliver enduring prosperity, shared progress and lasting mutual benefits for our peoples.
Which areas of cooperation do you consider to hold the greatest potential in the coming years?
The fields holding the greatest potential for partnership include tourism, renewable energy, the green transition, maritime logistics, and smart infrastructure. Furthermore, we see immense growth potential in developing state-ofthe-art digital infrastructure, data hubs and AI. Montenegro’s strategic location, natural beauty, and EU accession path complement the UAE’s expertise in sustainable tourism, clean energy, and smart infrastructure. We are also exploring opportunities in technology transfer, knowledge exchange and capability building. The deepening strategic collaboration between the UAE and Montenegro in the energy sector reflects our shared commitment to sustainable development, enhanced energy security and inclusive economic growth across the Balkans. A flagship achievement of UAE–Montenegro cooperation is the 50/50 joint venture (JV) between Masdar and Montenegro’s national power utility, EPCG, signed in April 2026. The JV will develop up to 2 GW of renewable energy capacity across solar PV, wind, hydropower, pumped hydro, battery storage and hybrid solutions, supporting domestic demand, energy security and future exports to neighbouring European markets. It builds on Masdar’s 2018 investment in the 72 MW Krnovo Wind Farm. During the UAE delegation’s visit to Montenegro on 27 July 2026, led by H.E. Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Masdar and EPCG advanced the JV towards project execution through agreements for 150 MW of solar capacity – the 115 MW Štedim and 35 MW Krupac projects – and an FFA to explore more than 400 MW of pumped hydro storage. These are the JV’s first projects. Europe is a key strategic market for Masdar, which targets 100 GW globally by 2030. Its 2025 acquisition of TERNA ENERGY includes the 680 MW Amfilochia pumped hydro project, providing relevant expertise for Montenegro. Masdar’s global portfolio exceeds 65 GW, spanning solar, onshore and offshore wind, battery storage and hybrid solutions. Through this and similar initiatives, the UAE continues to play a constructive role in advancing regional energy security, decarbonisation and job creation in innovative sectors. We are fully committed to strengthening these ties for the benefit of both nations and the wider Balkan region, and we look forward to delivering tangible, long-term results alongside our Montenegrin partners. We are pleased to be working alongside the Government of Montenegro to advance the country’s energy transformation and contribute to energy security and sustainable economic growth across the region.
How do you view Montenegro’s potential as an investment destination for UAE investors?
The UAE views Montenegro as a reliable and promising partner in the Balkans. The UAE encourages its private sector to explore these opportunities, supported by strong government-to-government relations and a shared interest in long-term, sustainable investments. UAE investors appreciate the welcoming environment, the country’s strategic potential and the ongoing dialogue with Montenegrin authorities. Montenegro continues to demonstrate its determination to facilitate the timely and successful realisation of high-impact investments that respect both economic objectives and the highest standards of sustainability and social responsibility. Our investors remain enthusiastic and committed to long-term, responsible investments that contribute positively to Montenegro’s growth. Montenegro has tremendous assets – breathtaking nature, cultural heritage, a talented population and a strategic location – that position it for remarkable progress. Areas such as streamlining processes for sustainable investments, advancing renewable energy integration and enhancing connectivity could help realise this potential. With the strong bilateral framework we are building – including recent energy and investment agreements – the path is clear. The UAE is eager to share its experience in sustainable development and innovation to support Montenegro’s journey towards prosperity.
What are the key values that the United Arab Emirates promotes through its contemporary diplomatic approach?
The UAE is a champion of dialogue, cooperation, stability and prosperity, and stands as a vital bridge between nations. Guided by the vision of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the UAE is committed to building constructive partnerships that advance mutual understanding, promote sustainable development and drive economic prosperity. Since its founding, the UAE has forged robust relations with countries across the globe, grounded in openness, trust and constructive cooperation. Motivated by the shared goals of international peace, stability and development, the UAE continues to serve as a facilitator of diplomatic dialogue and actively supports global efforts to promote peace, prosperity and the well-being of communities worldwide. Built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding, the UAE is home to more than 200 nationalities living together in peace and harmony. Over the next 50 years, the UAE will continue to invest in efforts to maintain its status as one of the best countries in the world in which to live and work, based on its future-facing outlook, progressive legal reform and commitment to sociocultural diversity.Through humanitarian action, sustainable development and diplomacy, the UAE seeks to promote peace, strengthen resilience and foster the values of tolerance and coexistence worldwide. Aligned with a longstanding ambition to develop an increasingly resilient, dynamic and knowledge-based economy, the UAE continues to invest in people and knowledge as the most powerful drivers of economic development and diversification. This includes partnering with nations and stakeholders around the world to facilitate trade and investment, promote sustainable growth and prosperity and develop the social, educational and entrepreneurial infrastructure that enables individuals and economies to thrive.
How does the Embassy contribute to strengthening economic, cultural and educational ties between our two countries?
The UAE Embassy in Podgorica serves as an active bridge, working to deepen economic, cultural and educational ties between the UAE and Montenegro. Through organising business forums, cultural events and high-level visits, the Embassy facilitates delegations, promotes people-to-people exchanges and collaborates closely with Montenegrin institutions to identify and advance joint projects in trade, education and culture. Our aim is to translate our close bilateral relations into tangible benefits for the citizens of both nations. We are equally enthusiastic about strengthening our ties with partners such as Montenegro in the humanitarian, economic and cultural spheres to create shared prosperity. Most recently, the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation provided support to equip EdTech laboratories in four schools, advancing digital education and innovation among young Montenegrins. These contributions highlight our desire to stand in solidarity, alleviate hardship and foster enduring friendship and cooperation.
How important are innovation, sustainable development and digital transformation within the UAE’s foreign policy agenda?
The UAE’s remarkable development is the result of visionary leadership, a strategic focus on diversification, investment in human capital, innovation and strong international partnerships. Innovation, sustainable development and digital transformation are priorities within the United Arab Emirates’ foreign policy agenda. Far from being purely domestic benchmarks, these pillars define our international relations as we lead the transition towards a global, knowledge-based economy. Guided by visionary long-term frameworks such as the UAE Centennial 2071 and the UAE Green Agenda, our diplomatic apparatus utilises proactive economic diplomacy to cultivate future-ready partnerships. By investing globally in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and smart government initiatives, the UAE positions itself as a dedicated partner in cross-border modernisation and inclusive growth. Sustainable development stands at the very forefront of our foreign policy, transforming the UAE into a leading international champion of climate finance and the green energy transition. Following the UAE’s historic hosting of COP28 – and the landmark signing of the UAE Consensus by 198 parties – our external strategy heavily emphasises international collaboration to support global sustainability goals and promote climate resilience. We treat the global shift towards a low-carbon, circular economy as a mutual necessity, turning shared environmental responsibilities into resilient pillars of long-term economic stability and bilateral cooperation. We believe that innovation and sustainability are absolutely essential for building resilient societies. By embedding advanced technology and digital capabilities into our bilateral relations, we work alongside nations such as Montenegro to develop stable, forward-looking economies that provide an exceptional quality of life for future generations. With a forward-looking approach to innovation, the UAE seeks to foster an investment ecosystem that pushes the frontiers of technological possibilities. The UAE’s approach to artificial intelligence, backed by strong national support and robust partnerships, underscores a firm commitment to reinforcing the country’s position as a leading partner in technological innovation. The UAE is actively accelerating innovation to enhance productivity and drive significant advancements in the global economy, with a strong commitment to developing responsible and inclusive AI for the benefit of all. The UAE believes that technology can be used to lift millions out of poverty and enhance global prosperity. Collaboration with international partners is at the forefront of this mission, strengthening the UAE’s capabilities and helping to seize emerging opportunities in this fast-evolving sector. We actively share our expertise and best practices with partners such as Montenegro, believing that innovation and sustainability are essential for inclusive and resilient development.
What message would you like to convey to the business community and the citizens of Montenegro regarding opportunities for cooperation with the UAE?
I invite the Montenegrin business community and its citizens to view the United Arab Emirates as a reliable, long-term partner. Our collaboration extends far beyond financial investments; we offer advanced knowledge, cutting-edge technology and a gateway to global markets. Together, we can create sustainable projects that bring lasting benefits to both our nations. The UAE is open for business. The UAE also welcomes our partners in Montenegro to explore the vast array of mutual opportunities ahead. Our country offers a highly competitive business ecosystem built on cross-border innovation, diverse economic frameworks and world-class logistics facilities. We encourage entrepreneurs and businesses to fully utilise our institutional frameworks, investment portals and cultural platforms to build enduring commercial ties and achieve even greater levels of economic cooperation and mutual growth. The UAE remains deeply committed to supporting balanced, inclusive and sustainable endeavours in Montenegro – projects that uplift local communities and reflect our shared values of progress and mutual respect. We are grateful for the warm bilateral ties between our countries, and we look forward to continued collaboration that benefits both our peoples, in harmony with Montenegro’s vision for its future.
In your opinion, what role does cultural diplomacy play in building long-term partnerships between nations?
Cultural diplomacy plays an indispensable role in building long-lasting partnerships by fostering deep mutual understanding and respect between peoples. It serves as a vital tool for building trust, fostering deep mutual understanding and creating authentic people-to-people connections that transcend politics and economics. Through meaningful exchanges in the arts, heritage, academic exchanges, education and sports, we create enduring connections between our peoples. The UAE invests significantly in these cultural initiatives because we believe they form a resilient foundation for long-lasting partnerships. Historically, we have laid strong foundations through milestones such as Montenegro’s highly memorable participation in Expo Dubai, as well as specialised cultural exchanges hosted in Podgorica, such as the screening of the landmark History of the Emirates documentary series. Looking ahead, our bilateral agenda remains focused on elevating these ties, building directly on cultural frameworks discussed between our respective Ministries of Culture to foster joint museum initiatives, literary exchanges and the protection of shared heritage. Ultimately, these human connections create the goodwill and alignment necessary to sustain our shared political and economic achievements.
What is your vision for the future development of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Montenegro?
My vision for the future of UAE-Montenegro relations is centred on achieving a dynamic, multi-layered partnership. We aim to further elevate our bilateral ties, translating our strong diplomatic foundations into tangible advances across all sectors. I am confident that our relations will continue to flourish for the benefit of both our peoples through deeper economic cooperation and enhanced people-to-people links.