Cooperation between the Government and the Council of Europe is important on the way to EU membership

The Government of Montenegro and the Office of the Council of Europe record excellent cooperation in the implementation of projects and activities aimed at further democratization and development of society. The continuation of the support of the Council of Europe represents an important contribution on the way to Montenegro’s EU membership. This was assessed at the meeting of the Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević and the head of the Program Office of the Council of Europe in Podgorica, Lejla Dervišagić.

The interlocutors exchanged opinions regarding the results and the continuation of the implementation of several projects that are implemented within the framework of the joint program for the cooperation of the European Union and the Council of Europe for the Western Balkans and Turkey.

Minister Gorčević thanked the Office of the Council of Europe for the support they provide to Montenegro in fulfilling reform agendas in the areas of human rights, rule of law and democracy, and harmonization with European standards, which, as she said, is a priority in the EU enlargement process.

“Cooperation with the Council of Europe is indispensable in reforms, especially in the area of the rule of law and the implementation of reform processes in this area.” “Montenegro will continue to work dedicatedly on the improvement and implementation of relevant policies, which, respecting the values and standards of human rights and democracy, contribute to the rule of law,” said Minister Gorčević.

Head of the Office Dervišagić pointed out the importance of implementing projects related to strengthening accountability in the judicial system, the fight against economic crime, quality education for all, protection of freedom and expression, and freedom of the media, as well as projects dealing with the promotion of good governance and empowerment of Roma at the local level, especially importance of the Project called iPROCEEDS – 2.

“The Council of Europe will continue to provide support to Montenegro, especially in the area of human rights. Use all the experience and knowledge of Council of Europe experts from the regions and EU member states to achieve the best and fastest progress on the way to the EU,” said Dervišagić.