The summer tourism season in Montenegro started earlier than expected and indicates that this year the revenue will exceed €1bn – the highest level ever, news outlet CDM reported, quoting industry officials. And Russian visitors do not seem to have been put off visiting despite warnings from the Russian foreign ministry advising Russians not to visit the country.

Tourism is traditionally one of the strongest sectors in the Adriatic country which, along with investments in infrastructure, supports its economic growth.

According to Zarko Radunovic, the head of Montenegro’s Tourist Union, the highest number of foreign tourists staying in Montenegro this summer is from Australia, Canada, the US and the UAE. The numbers visiting from Russia have remained unchanged from last year despite a campaign from Moscow in April advising Russians not to holiday in Montenegro following the souring of relations between the two countries due to Montenegro joining Nato. Russian officials warned citizens not to travel to Montenegro, claiming that the situation was "unfavourable" for them. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zankina said in a statement that Russians could face arrest on “questionable charges” should they risk a visit. 

However, the Association of tour operators in Russia (ATOR) also issued in April a press release, pointing out that Zakharova’s statement was not the official position of the ministry but a reply to a question. Others within Russia have also cast doubt on the ministry’s statement.