The Governor of the National Bank of Austria (Oesterreichische Nationalbank - OeNB), Dr. Robert Holzman, gave a lecture at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Montenegro on the topic "Economic convergence with the European Union: aspirations, conditions and experiences".

During his inspiring presentation, Governor Holzman emphasized that for joining the European Union, it is necessary to build stable institutions, stressing that the independence of the central bank is one of the key factors in the process of economic rapprochement.

Although Montenegro has achieved significant economic growth, Holzman emphasized that the process of convergence with the European Union is still not over, because there is still a significant gap in income between Montenegro and the countries of the Eurozone.

Speaking about the economic differences between the countries of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, as well as the Western Balkans, Holzman singled out the positive effects of European integration, which, according to him, are most pronounced through access to the European Union's single market.

The governor concluded that it is essential for Montenegro to resolutely continue on the path of European integration, with the goal of joining the EU as soon as possible.

The lecture was organized in cooperation with the Central Bank of Montenegro (CBCG) and the Faculty of Economics, on the occasion of Governor Holzman's first official visit to the Central Bank of Montenegro. The event was attended by representatives of the financial sector, the diplomatic and international community, as well as numerous students who, through questions and an exchange of opinions, had the opportunity to talk with the governor about current economic topics.