Ivanović-Živković: Cooperation with UNDP contributes to democratization and overall development of the country

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović met today with Ivana Živković, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Director of the Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović expressed his gratitude for the ongoing cooperation between Montenegro and the United Nations system, highlighting in particular the fruitful collaboration with UNDP, both on political and practical levels. He praised UNDP’s activities in Montenegro, which directly contribute to the democratization and overall development of the country.

During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to further cooperation aimed at achieving shared goals, particularly in terms of Montenegro’s accession to the European Union and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (Agenda 2030). These two agendas were recognized as complementary in areas of mutual interest, such as democratic governance, green growth, sustainable development, combating climate change, social inclusion, and poverty reduction.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović stated that Montenegro relies on the support of the United Nations, particularly in strengthening administrative capacities and providing expert assistance to successfully meet the goals of both priority agendas.

He also emphasized the importance of enhancing Montenegro’s international visibility and its cooperation with international organizations, particularly the UN, noting that this is one of the country’s foreign policy priorities. In this context, he referred to Montenegro’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.

Ivanović also highlighted the long-standing programme of support in strengthening the administrative capacities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the implementation of the project "Gavro Vuković" Summer School for Young Diplomats, which is traditionally organized in cooperation with UNDP. This year, the school brought together a record number of participants from all continents, further proving its international significance.

Živković praised the nearly two decades of cooperation between UNDP and Montenegro, which has resulted in significant reforms.

As one of the largest UN agencies, UNDP is committed to further strengthening its cooperation with Montenegro in promoting human rights, focusing on the green economy, social inclusion, and enhancing public administration capacities. Since the establishment of the UNDP office in Montenegro in 2006, UNDP has implemented development projects worth $120 million, and I am pleased with our shared commitment to the partnership on the path toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, Živković stated.

At the end of the meeting, it was emphasized that, in addition to excellent cooperation and partnerships at the national level, there are regular high-level political contacts, and these relationships will be further strengthened during the upcoming General Debate at the United Nations in New York.