UPDATE: The Montenegro Ministry of European Affairs (MEP) has just announced significant achievements in cross-border cooperation programs with Albania and Kosovo. The announcement comes during a high-profile Capitalization Event aimed at showcasing the results of these initiatives.
Representatives from institutions, local governments, civil society organizations, and project partners across Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo gathered today to discuss their experiences and the tangible benefits arising from these collaborative efforts. MEP’s General Director for European Territorial Cooperation, Miloš Marković, emphasized that these programs are foundational for long-term regional development.
“Good neighborly relations and regional cooperation are essential for progress towards the European Union,” said Marković.
Marković highlighted that the programs have realized 83 projects valued at over €25 million, uniting public institutions, local governments, educational facilities, and civil sectors to deliver measurable outcomes. These efforts have not only enhanced employment opportunities, especially for vulnerable groups, but have also focused on environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and the promotion of tourism through cultural heritage.
Rando Kote, Head of the Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation in Albania’s State Agency for Strategic Planning and Aid Coordination, stressed the importance of capitalization in regional cooperation. He stated, “Capitalization allows us to turn experience into knowledge, knowledge into policies, and policies into lasting impact.”
Jeton Čelja, Secretary of State in Kosovo’s Ministry of Local Government, reinforced the role of local communities in project implementation, asserting that well-supported local governance drives economic, cultural, and social development.
Sanja Bečanović, acting General Director of the Directorate for Financing, Contracting, and Implementation of EU Funds in Montenegro’s Finance Ministry, pointed out the direct benefits of cross-border projects for citizens and local economies. “These projects demonstrate how cross-border cooperation can deliver tangible benefits such as employment and the strengthening of local economies,” she remarked.
During the event, Melanie Bride, a representative from the European Union Delegation in Montenegro, highlighted how cross-border cooperation promotes unity and supports development efforts while reducing territorial inequalities, all grounded in shared European values of trust and mutual respect.
Panel discussions revealed that EU-funded projects have effectively empowered youth, women, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups through practical skills training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support. Experts agreed that strong employer involvement and partnerships are crucial for sustainable employment and self-employment opportunities.
At a panel on tourism and cultural heritage, participants emphasized that successful cross-border tourism relies on authentic local values, strong partnerships, and active community engagement, all while balancing development with the protection of natural and cultural heritage. The need for education, digital tools, ecological standards, and branding local gastronomy was stressed as essential for enhancing destination quality and competitiveness.
The environmental protection session showcased visible results from ecological activities and cross-border collaboration, with participants agreeing that a joint approach and strong community involvement are key to addressing shared environmental challenges.
Nada Pejović, Head of the Directorate for Bilateral Cross-Border Programs at the MEP, presented both programs, particularly emphasizing opportunities available under the new IPA III financial perspective. She underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation and the potential benefits these programs can bring to institutions and local communities.
This event serves as a vital platform for sharing experiences, inspiring new projects and partnerships, and further strengthening regional cooperation and Montenegro’s European integration efforts. Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of these cross-border initiatives.
