National Reference Phytosanitary Laboratory opens in Montenegro

A National Reference Phytosanitary Laboratory has been opened at the Biotechnical Faculty in Montenegro. The project, funded through the MIDAS 2 initiative, represents an investment of over four million euros.

In addition to establishing the laboratory for phytosanitary diagnostics, the project included the construction of a fourth floor for the faculty building, new spaces for professors and offices, and the equipping of modern classrooms for students. The investment also involved a complete modernization of the building's thermal engineering systems.

Vladimir Joković, the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, attended the opening and stated that the investment supports the development of science, education, and professional staff. The laboratory is intended to enhance plant health protection, quality standards, and food safety, while facilitating the accreditation of laboratory methods to achieve internationally recognized diagnostic results. The project is also viewed as a step toward meeting requirements for Chapter 12 of the EU negotiating framework regarding food safety, veterinary, and phytosanitary policy.