The negotiation process is a unique opportunity for the development of local self-governments and strengthening of their capacities, which will ensure that Montenegrin municipalities are positioned as a strong partner to the Government and the European Union, said chief negotiator Aleksandar Drljević.
He spoke in Nikšić at the opening of the 11th Joint Advisory Committee meeting between the EU and Montenegro Committees of the Regions, which, as he pointed out, is an excellent opportunity to discuss issues of importance for local governments and how they can contribute to a better quality path of Montenegro into the EU.
Drljević stressed that the reform in all negotiating areas is of great importance for the development of local self-governments, since they represent the first line of service delivery to citizens.
“Integration into the EU brings a number of benefits and opportunities, but also obligations for which we should prepare in timely manner. That’s the reason why municipal authorities need to be aware that continuous investment in the development of administrative capacities represents at the same time the need and responsibility of local governments, and that the negotiation process is a unique opportunity for achieving development that will ensure that they are positioned as a strong partner to both the Government and partners from the Committee of the EU region, “said Drljevic.
He added that capacity building is particularly important for the withdrawal of funds from European funds and the preparation and implementation of important projects, and that the previous results in the use of the IPA have shown that some local governments have very seriously and maturely approached this issue.
GENERAL SECRETARIAT OF THE GOVERNMENT OF MONTENEGRO
SECTOR FOR INFORMING THE PUBLIC ABOUT THE EU AND THE EU ACCESSION PROCESS
