Montenegro-Italy relations: Government Commission meeting unveils activity plan and announces visit to Italy

Today marked the inaugural session of the Commission for enhancing the modalities of relations between Montenegro and the Republic of Italy in the fields of labour, education, healthcare, and social policy.

Established by the decision of the Government of Montenegro on 29 December 2023, the Commission aims to define the framework for strategic cooperation between Montenegro and Italy, building upon their traditional, historical, and contemporary ties. This initiative also reflects Montenegro's aspiration to become a full member of the European Union, with Italy's support in the process.

Deputy Prime Minister for Labour, Education, Health, and Social Affairs Srđan Pavićević was appointed as the Commission's president. Other members include ministers responsible for health, education, science and innovation, labour and social welfare, European affairs, foreign affairs, as well as representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Labour, Education, Health, and Social Affairs, the Office of the Minister of Finance, and the Secretariat General of the Government.

As explained by DPM Pavićević, the primary goal of the Commission is to establish direct, open channels of communication with Italy (as an EU founding member), which strongly supports the EU enlargement. Additionally, the Commission aims to explore potential collaboration and support from Italy in implementing key infrastructure projects in Montenegro.

The Commission's regular tasks include monitoring, coordinating, and identifying new opportunities for the development of bilateral relations in the fields of labour, education, healthcare, and social policy between Montenegro and Italy. It also involves proposing new solutions to enhance cooperation between organisations and state institutions of both countries in these areas and addressing issues related to European integration in the fields of labour, education, healthcare, and social policy.

In line with the work plan and collaboration platform with Italy, measures and activities have already been undertaken to define the cooperation framework and potential stakeholders on both sides.

Preparatory activities have been carried out for the first official visit to Italy, scheduled for late February / early March, including organising meetings with the Minister of Health (O. Schillaci) and other partners, as well as visiting major medical centers in  Tuscany.