Ivanović meets with Chief of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Montenegro Vladimir Gjorgjiev

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović held a meeting today with Chief of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Montenegro Vladimir Gjorgjiev.

The discussion focused on strengthening the long-standing cooperation through numerous projects and initiatives aimed at raising standards, building capacities, and overall enhancing migration management.

The support provided by the IOM Office to Montenegro’s Ministry of Interior was particularly highlighted. Through capacity-building and integrated border management projects, IOM contributes directly to greater security in the Western Balkans and beyond.

DPM Ivanović expressed gratitude for IOM's support of Montenegro’s EU integration process and improvements in the area of migration. He emphasised that IOM projects align with the European Commission’s recommendations under Chapter 24, positioning IOM as an essential partner in Montenegro’s path to European integration. Ivanović reiterated Montenegro’s commitment to safe, controlled, and orderly migration, in line with the objectives of the UN Global Compact for Migration.

Ivanović also welcomed IOM’s engagement in a project that leverages diaspora involvement for Montenegro’s sustainable development. This initiative promotes the positive impacts of migration and strengthens the role of the diaspora in the country’s economic growth, bridging cultural ties between home and host countries.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need for further coordination with IOM on legislative development, work permit issuance, workers’ rights protection, and inspection oversight in sectors where Montenegro faces workforce shortages.

With Montenegro’s aim to join the European Union by 2028 and its focus on developing new technologies and the IT sector, DPM Ivanović indicated that the country is expected to become an increasingly attractive destination for people from both Europe and beyond in the coming years.

Mr. Gjorgjiev expressed IOM’s readiness to support Montenegro’s progress and improve conditions in migration management—an area of critical importance for the EU and its member states.

He extended an invitation to Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović to attend the 115th meeting of IOM member states in Geneva and informed him of IOM's plans to host a regional migration conference in Montenegro next year. This conference would reinforce Montenegro’s leadership in migration management within the Western Balkans.