New EU Support to Local Self-Governments for Infrastructure Improvement
The European Union will support the implementation of four new infrastructure projects in Kučevo, Novi Pazar, Svrljig and Prijepolje, through the EU PRO Plus programme, implemented by UNOPS in cooperation with the Ministry of European Integration. With EU grants amounting to more than 810,000 Euros, conditions for education, cultural activities and tourism will be improved, while also contributing to a more favourable business environment for new investments and employment opportunities.
“Through EU PRO Plus, we have demonstrated that the development of local and economic infrastructure forms the foundation for a better quality of life for citizens, a stronger economy, and the sustainable development of local communities. Through joint efforts, conditions for education, social protection, culture, sports, and more efficient delivery of public services have been improved, while projects supporting business infrastructure have stimulated investments worth 235 million euros and created more than 2,000 new jobs,” said Mira Radenović Bojić, State Secretary at the Ministry for European Integration.
The four new projects represent a continuation of the European Union’s support to sustainable and balanced local development. In Novi Pazar, the “Mur” Primary School will be renovated; in Kučevo, the “Lane” Preschool Institution will be reconstructed; while in Svrljig, the Centre for Culture, Tourism and Sports will be renovated. In Prijepolje, the economic infrastructure project includes the reconstruction and expansion of the water supply network in the Purića Potok business and residential zone in order to create conditions for the expansion of existing enterprises and the attraction of new investors.
“The European Union investments in local and economic infrastructure, through EU PRO Plus, are bringing tangible benefits to communities across Serbia. These projects respond to the real needs of local communities and contribute to creating safer, more functional and more inclusive environments, improving access to services for more than 280,000 people. At the same time, investments in economic infrastructure are strengthening local business environments, attracting new investments and creating opportunities for employment and long-term economic growth,” said Mauro di Veroli, Head of Cooperation of the Delegation of the European Union to Serbia.
“With the support of the European Union and in cooperation with the Ministry of European Integration, UNOPS has been implementing local development programmes in Serbia for more than a decade, continuously expanding both the reach and impact of this assistance. Through EU PRO Plus, our goal is not only to enhance infrastructure, but also to strengthen local capacities and support communities in implementing sustainable and inclusive development initiatives that create long-term benefits for citizens across Serbia,” said Marko Vujačić, Head of Programme of the UNOPS South East Europe Multi-Country Office.
During the presentation of the new projects, examples of good practice from Šabac and Užice were also showcased. Ana Marinković, Head of the Project Management Department of the City Administration of Šabac, presented how the city, with nearly 180,000 euros of EU support, opened a Science Centre that provides adequate space and conditions for the development of talented children and youth. The project for the restoration of the water tower at the Stari grad fortress in Užice was presented by Aleksandar Tasić, Head of the Project Management Department.