PM Lukšić, UN representative Avanessov: Successful cooperation model – example for region

Podgorica, Montenegro (22 June, 2011) – Projects that UNDP has realised in cooperation with the Government contributed significantly to the overall development of Montenegro, Prime Minister Igor Lukšić and UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative Alexander Avanessov agreed during Mr Avanessov’s farewell visit earlier today.

“The support provided by the UNDP to the Montenegrin Government made a contribution to the fulfilment of our European and economic objectives, and proved a successful model that the countries of the region can look up to”, the PM remarked.

Mr Avanessov pointed out to the advantages of the recently adopted programme document for the period 2012 – 2016, which focuses on several key goals of further UN cooperation with the Montenegrin institutions.

“Through the support of the Montenegro-EU negotiation process, dedicated work on social inclusion, adequate response to climate change and through the implementation of sustainable development policies”, Mr Avanessov continued, “the intention is to jointly provide further progress of Montenegro on its European path.”

The two officials also agreed that the common goal in the coming period will be to continue reforms regarding Montenegro’s administrative capacities and to reduce differences in regional development, emphasising particularly the development of entrepreneurship in the north of the country.