IPA Cross-Border Cooperation Programme Montenegro-Kosovo 2014-2020 The global objective of the programme is to improve the standard and quality of living of the people in the programme area through the environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive economic development of the region, with respect for its common cultural and natural heritage.
Minister of European Affairs Mr Aleksandar Andrija Pejovic and Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Montenegro, Mr Skender Durmishi, signed today in Podgorica the Bilateral Arrangement and the Partnership Agreement concerning the Cross-Border Cooperation Programme between Montenegro and Kosovo within the framework of IPA II 2014-2020. Minister Pejovic emphasized that the signing of these agreements represents a continuation of the quality cooperation that the institutions of Montenegro and Kosovo started in 2010, within the framework of the EU enlargement policy. He pointed out that the 1st Call for Proposals of the Cross-Border Cooperation Program Montenegro – Kosovo 2011-2013 already showed great interest from applicants from both sides of the border, and that a total of 9 projects were selected for financing, worth in total 3.7 million euros.
He underlined that today’s signing of the agreement formally fulfils the conditions for the start of the implementation of the IPA CBC Programme between Montenegro and Kosovo for the period 2014-2020, and that funds for the forthcoming seven-year period amount to 8.4 million euros. He emphasized that the implementation of already approved but also new projects will contribute to the improvement of cooperation between the two countries in the areas of promoting employment, protecting the environment and developing tourism, and improving the quality of life of people in the cross-border areas.
Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo in Montenegro Skender Durmishi welcomed the signing of the agreement, pointing out that it represents a confirmation of good cooperation between Montenegro and Kosovo, as well as testifying to the commitment to the process of European integration of the two countries. He emphasized that the signed agreements will have great significance for the daily lives of people in the cross-border areas, and will further affirm the cooperation of the two countries. He also announced that the signing of a series of agreements will follow in the coming period, which will contribute to the improvement of cooperation in the areas of economic development, culture and economy.