Montenegro signs EUR 80 million worth financial agreements on environmental protection, employment

Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević signed earlier today, on behalf of the Government of Montenegro, EUR 80 million worth financial agreements with the EU. The agreements are related to multiannual operational programmes in the fields of environmental protection, and employment and social inclusion for the period 2024-2027.

Minister Gorčević noted the financial agreements mark a significant step forward in strengthening the State's capacity to implement important reforms and building a sustainable society, at the same time confirming Montenegro's commitment to European integration and the principles of sustainable development.

The message is clear: Montenegro knows where it is heading, believes in European values, and is building a society where development, equality, and dignity become a reality – not a promise, Gorčević stressed.

The Operational Programme on Environmental Protection and Climate Change aims to preserve and enhance the country's natural resources, as well as to protect health and well-being of citizens from the risks posed by climate change. The programme covers four key areas: municipal water management, waste management, nature protection, and climate change adaptation, along with additional support for the environmental protection sector. The total value of this program is EUR 48.5 million.

The activities to be financed through the programme are aligned with the key benchmarks of the Action Plan for Negotiating Chapter 27 – Environment and Climate Change, including measures for separate waste collection, management of municipal wastewater, and protection of the Natura 2000 network, as well as the development of administrative capacities necessary for the effective implementation and enforcement of European legal standards.

Another important agreement concerns the Operational Programme for Employment and Social Inclusion worth EUR 31.6 million. This programme is aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth through three main areas of support: inclusive labour market, social protection and inclusion, as well as strengthening administrative capacities. The goal is to create conditions for full and productive employment and decent work for all citizens, especially vulnerable groups.

The implemented activities support the process of closing negotiations in chapters 19 - Social policy and employment and 23 - Justice and fundamental rights, and enhance preparations for the effective implementation of cohesion policy following Montenegro's accession to the European Union.