By introducing program of economic citizenship, Montenegro will attract a lot of investors, and those who left will return, said president of Canadian company Arton Capital, Armand Arton, speaking to Weekend Edition of Dnevne Novine daily.
Arton Capital submitted a bid to the Government for preparation of program of economic citizenship, and it also organized prestigious Global Citizen forum, set to take place on Sveti Stefan next month.
VN: Global Citizen forum will take place on October 19th and 20th, on Sveti Stefan. How much importance does this event hold for Montenegro?
Arton: This forum used to be organized in Dubai, Toronto, Monacco. This year it was supposed to be in Qatar, but taking into account current political situation there, we decided to organize the event in Montenegro. Montenegro is an up and coming destination, undiscovered by many. It has an element of mystery and surprise that we wish to offer to our guests.
When it comes to this year’s program, participants will have two days to discuss the meaning of the phrase citizen of the world, after which discussions will focus on the economic situation in the world, on safety, migrations of people and money and philanthropy. Prime Minister Dusko Markovic will open the event, which will be attended by prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne, writer Robin Sharma, actor Robert de Niro, former NATO general Wesley Clark, director general of UNESCO Irina Bokova and many other guests from politics, business and show business. American rapper Eve and Wyclef Jean, founder of band Fugees, will perform at the event.
People who have contributed to the development of Montenegro, such as investors from Aman and Porto Montenegro are also welcome on the forum. They had a vision about this country when no one else had it, so we want to know how they think, how they make decisions. I believe this is the first time Montenegro will have such an event.
VN: You submitted a bid for program of economic citizenship, initiated by the Government. Can you reveal the details of your bid?
Arton: Ever since 2010, we have been following Montenegro’s actions in this field. I believe there was some uncertainty then, the Government was badly advised and the matter was closed. However, five years later, the Government decided to try again and in a right way. We are happy that the Government decided to analyze this industry and learn how it functions. We strongly recommend that the Government diversifies and does not grant the licence to one company only, because this represents a clear model of corruption. Competition is good and it ensures quality. Government representatives accepted our recommendation.
Our experience begins in Canada, where we have been working with the government since 2006. We have several contracts with different countries. There are five programs in the Caribbean. In some countries, such as St Lucia, we have an advisory role, while in other we do marketing and promotion. In Canada, it is a public-private partnership. We also work with Cyprus, Bulgaria, Armenia.
I believe that in the following year, we will have 15 contracts with governments all over the world, while our closest competitor has only 4 contracts. We have already made contributions in Montenegro, bringing hotel giant Starwood-Marriott with two projects. Four Points by Sheraton has already been opened, and Westin will be soon.
VN: Can this program contribute to Montenegro’s development?
Arton: I do believe that this industry will contribute to the development of Montenegro. This country has a lot to offer to the investors, especially in the field of real-estate. Average flight duration from Russia, Middle East, Africa to Montenegro is 4 hours, while to the Caribbean it is 16 to 20 hours. It is clear that investors will rather come to Montenegro than fly to the Caribbean. Montenegro has extraordinary natural beauty, and it has a rugged air of mystery, it is not yet established as a luxury destination. Our clients like historical sites such as Sveti Stefan and Kotor.
In addition to the coast, the north is equally important. Our advice is that the investments in the north be a half of those in the coast, which will create the choice for clients.
We advised them to hire a group of world’s best companies that will research potential investors, origin of their money, their reputation. We are especially concerned with the reputation of our clients, countries and ourselves.
Montenegro’s advantage could be the fact that it is not a part of EU yet. It can be interesting to some clients, in regards to tax laws.
VN: Is NATO membership going to contribute to an increase in direct foreign investments?
Arton: I personally do not believe that a membership in NATO by itself means an automatic increase in direct foreign investments, if there is nothing you can offer to the investors. I think the membership is just one point in the list of things investors pay mind to, but it is not crucial. Government of Montenegro is fighting corruption and working to protect foreign investors, which is the most important part. We only hear successful stories, such as Porto Montenegro.
Economic citizenship is another factor that will attract investors, and it will ensure many projects are developed in the coast and in the north.
VN: Can you comment on negative articles in the media, and negative attitudes of politicians regarding this program?
Arton: We did all we could to play fair in this country, and all other countries where we worked. We do not engage in politics. Certain media tried to discredit our company. It is a dirty game and we have already taken steps to legally protect ourselves from the fake news.
This industry should not become a political tool. We are a professional, transparent and ethical company. Other countries cooperate with us and are pleased, which is proven by the fact that we have more and more contracts every year.
VN: Do you believe in the work you do today?
Arton: Four generations of my family migrated, believing they were born on the wrong side of the border. My parents migrated to Canada in order to ensure better education for me. What I do today is part of my DNA. As global citizens, we can choose where we want to live. It is up to us to make this world better for our children, for future generations.
More than 15 offices all over the world
Arton Capital, company with headquarters in Canada, works to ensure that individuals and families can become citizens of the world.
Arton has more than 15 offices all over the world, and they have contributed to several billions of dollars being invested in different countries. As a global financial counseling company, specialized for residence and citizenship programs, Arton Capital plays a key role in fostering strong ties between governments, consultants, legal and financial experts and investors, so that their efficient, effective and responsible business practices are ensured.
Arton Capital is a part of Arton Group that also includes Arton Advisors, Arton Media, Global Citizen Forum, Global Citizen Foundation, Global Citizen Magazine and Passport index.
