The 10th Regional Cross-Border Cooperation Forum was held in Bečići on 25-27 September, organized by the Cross-Border Institution Building project (CBIB+). This important event brought together participants from the region and the European Union, including representatives from ministries in charge of coordinating cross-border cooperation programmes in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Serbia, as well as European Commission officials.
The forum was opened by Miloš Marković, Director General of the Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation at the Ministry of European Affairs, who expressed his pleasure that Montenegro was hosting such a significant regional event.
“Cross-border cooperation is vital to the present and future of Montenegro. It’s not just a policy objective, but a key tool for promoting development and strengthening good neighbourly relations. As a country aspiring to become the next EU member, we understand the importance of close cooperation with our neighbors in addressing common challenges and seizing shared opportunities,” Marković said.
He highlighted that Montenegro participates in four bilateral IPA cross-border cooperation programmes with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo and Serbia. During the previous IPA II framework, these programmes supported around 100 projects, leaving a lasting impact in various sectors.
“These projects have made significant contributions to improving employment, labor mobility, environmental protection, climate change adaptation, tourism, social inclusion and the preservation of cultural heritage. Together, these efforts have directly enhanced the quality of life for people living in the programme areas,” added Marković.
Over the three days of the Forum, participants discussed the achievements of cross-border cooperation programmes within the 2014-2020 framework and preparations for the 2021-2027 programming period. Special attention was given to the status of IPA II and IPA III programmes, lessons learned, project quality and the visibility of the CBC programmes.
The Forum concluded that cross-border cooperation is essential for the region’s future development and prosperity. Montenegro, as a country aspiring to EU membership, remains fully committed to working with its neighbours to address common challenges and capitalize on shared opportunities.
