Minister Radulović and Bouchardy : Montenegro and UNHCR are committed to continue intensive and meaningful cooperation

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Đorđe Radulović, conversed today with the newly appointed representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissariat for Refugees (UNHCR) in Montenegro, Jean- Yves Bouchardy. Minister Radulović congratulated Bouchardy on taking office, expressing his belief that meaningful and intensive contacts between Montenegro and the UNHCR will continue during his mandate.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, he praised the close cooperation with the UNHCR, emphasizing that Montenegro is strongly committed to the principles of international protection of migrants, refugees, stateless and displaced persons, as vulnerable categories of society. Montenegro is continuously working on the implementation of legal solutions and policies in order to provide spacious support to foreigners who have achieved the right to international and temporary protection, as well as to asylum seekers - said Minister Radulović.He added that Montenegro continuously pays voluntary contribution to the UNHCR, emphasizing that financing of humanitarian activities is exceptionally important for successful implementation of projects for the most vulnerable groups.

The UNHCR representative Bouchardy expressed the expectation that meaningful and good cooperation with the Government of Montenegro will be continued through strengthening the three key pillars related to support stateless, refugees and displaced persons.He also emphasized the importance of implementing legal solutions related to this area, adding that our country can count on help of UNHCR, especially in the context of Montenegro's accession to the EU.Bouchardy said that UNHCR will continue to provide support to Montenegro in realization of the goals of Global Compact, which includes the regime of protection of migrants and asylum seekers, increasing reception capacities, as well as developing favorable socio-economic environment.

The interlocutors agreed to continue communication and exchange experiences on all important issues, as well as to create broader coordination with other departments of the Government in the direction of achieving common goals.