A total of 38 million euros will be allocated for joint projects of institutions and organizations from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro, of which 31 million are EU grants. This was announced at the national info day dedicated to the Call for Standard Projects within the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme, held today in Podgorica.
Opening the event, Bojan Božović, State Secretary in the Ministry of European Affairs and National IPA Coordinator, emphasized that the cooperation between Italy, Albania, and Montenegro is of crucial importance for the development and prosperity of our countries.
“Through the previous cooperation programme, we have laid solid foundations for the joint future of the South Adriatic region, with the financial support of the European Union. This area, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, holds enormous potential, which we can activate together to improve the quality of life for our citizens, addressing common challenges and utilizing the numerous opportunities available to us,” said Božović.
He recalled that the previous cross-border cooperation programme between Italy, Albania, and Montenegro resulted in more than 100 projects with a total value of about 84 million euros.
“I am confident that we will receive quality cross-border projects focused on the development of innovation, strengthening competitiveness, combating climate change, enhancing connectivity between and within our countries, social policy, and sustainable tourism,” Božović noted.
Davide Marciano, a representative of the Apulia Region as the managing authority of the Programme, stated that the call is aimed at making the South Adriatic region smarter, greener, more connected, and socially empowered.
“I encourage interested participants from Montenegro to connect with partners from Italy and Albania to foster sustainable development and contribute to a better quality of life in this area,” Marciano said.
Representatives of the Joint Secretariat of the Programme from Bari presented the objectives of the Call, the application process, and other relevant information regarding project proposal preparation.
The Interreg IPA South Adriatic 2021-2027 Programme is a continuation of the previous Interreg IPA cross-border cooperation programme Italy-Albania-Montenegro 2014-2020. The programme area includes the Italian regions of Apulia and Molise, as well as the entire territories of Albania and Montenegro.
The deadline for submitting project proposals is September 6, 2024.