DPM Ivanović meets with UNDP Resident Representative for Montenegro

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović held a meeting today with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for Montenegro, Ms. Ekaterina Paniklova, to discuss further strengthening of cooperation in strategically important areas aligned with the priorities of the Government of Montenegro.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović emphasised the importance of UNDP's support and expressed Montenegro's appreciation for the assistance provided by the organization in the country's democratization and development efforts.

Ms. Paniklova expressed satisfaction with the ongoing cooperation, which is framed by the UNDP-Montenegro Partnership Programme 2023-2027, reaffirming that UNDP remains a reliable partner to Montenegro in implementing comprehensive reforms on its path toward EU membership.

Both parties highlighted their commitment to continuing successful collaboration on joint objectives, including the implementation of projects contributing to the 2030 Agenda, advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and accelerating the completion of the EU integration process.

During the meeting, discussions also focused on the importance of multilateralism, its values, and the significance of close cooperation and strengthened partnerships with the United Nations. They explored ways in which Montenegro can contribute more actively to finding common solutions to global challenges.

Ms. Paniklova noted that the 2024 UNDP Trends Report points to new challenges facing multilateralism, as conflicts intensify and geopolitical tensions negatively impact global trade and cooperation, affecting progress in human development. She highlighted Montenegro's significant role on both the regional and global stages, serving as a positive example. By meeting the EU accession criteria, Montenegro will also achieve two-thirds of the Sustainable Development Goals, further enhancing its development trajectory.