Ambassador Popa: EU projects worth over 17 million euros are being implemented in Herceg Novi

The head of the European Union Delegation to Montenegro, Ambassador Oana Kristina Popa, paid her first official visit to the municipality of Herceg Novi today, during which she talked with representatives of the city administration and project beneficiaries about the current support of the European Union and future local community development needs.

Local self-government, institutions and organizations in Herceg Novi are implementing 16 cross-border projects funded by the European Union, worth more than 17m euros.

"Through these projects, the EU is helping to create new opportunities in tourism, supporting the domestic economy, developing port infrastructure, protecting natural and cultural heritage, promoting energy efficiency and building resilience to natural disasters," said Ambassador Popa.

During the visit to the Swimming and Water Polo Club "Jadran", the ambassador said that Herceg Novi has many reasons to be proud of this sports club, which is not only home to exceptional athletes, but also a very successful user of several projects funded by the European Union. regional cultural exchange and environmental protection.

Today, Ambassador Popa also visited the Ivo Andrić House in Herceg Novi, which was renovated with the support of the EU, as part of a cross-border project worth over one million euros. "It is a beautiful place, which greatly contributes to the cultural life of the city," she said.

In order to find a lasting and sustainable solution for the accommodation of 36 most vulnerable refugee families living in collective or temporary accommodation in Herceg Novi, the European Union has provided more than one million euros for the purchase of apartments, of which 25 apartments have been purchased so far. moved in, while the purchase of the remaining 11 apartments is in progress.

"We are pleased to work with the local community to provide support to those who need it most. Herceg Novi is one of the most open communities in Montenegro for the reception of displaced persons from the region. "People from this city have clearly shown that they have a big heart and readiness to help those who need help the most in difficult times," the ambassador said.

In Herceg Novi, the European Union also supports the efforts of local organizations to tackle domestic violence, to promote women's rights and gender equality, and to improve services available to children with special needs.

"These projects make a real contribution to the local community, bringing concrete benefits in terms of the quality of life of the local population, especially those who are particularly vulnerable. We will continue to support the efforts of the citizens of Herceg Novi to build a better and more prosperous future in this beautiful coastal city, "the head of the EU Delegation concluded.