In the final phase of negotiations, all available mechanisms and experiences will be needed
After receiving a positive IBAR, Montenegro is entering the final phase of negotiations, during which all available mechanisms and experiences will be needed, stated Montenegro’s Chief Negotiator with the EU, Predrag Zenović, during a meeting with UNDP’s Resident Representative in Montenegro, Ekaterina Paniklova.
Zenović expressed interest in UNDP’s activities in Montenegro, showing openness to receiving expert support. He highlighted that UNDP’s assistance would be particularly valuable in the context of Chapter 27 – Environment and Climate Change, which is expected to be one of the most challenging chapters in the upcoming period.
Paniklova presented the key project portfolios that UNDP is implementing in the country, emphasizing collaboration with numerous institutions as well as with citizens and congratulated Montenegro on the recent IBAR achievement. She highlighted that Montenegro ranks high on the Human Development Index (HDI), at the 50th place, making it the highest in the Western Balkans region. Paniklova also expressed UNDP’s readiness to provide assistance to Montenegro on its path to EU accession through expert support, study visits, and other mechanisms. She stressed the need to strengthen the institutional capacities of the Montenegrin government to further implement reform processes in the country.
The interlocutors discussed the digital transformation process in Montenegro, recognizing the potential for UNDP to support Montenegrin institutions. In the context of the green transition, the need for sustainable development was emphasized, and it was recognized that Montenegro could meet the criteria of the global Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030 by 2028. Issues of social cohesion and gender equality were also discussed.
It was agreed to intensify contacts between the Ministry of European Affairs and UNDP to consider concrete models of support for Montenegro to achieve EU accession as soon as possible.