UPDATE: The Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro (MEP) has just announced a significant event focused on cross-border cooperation between Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo. The event, held on [insert date], has gathered key stakeholders from institutions, local governments, civil society, and project partners, emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative regional development.
During the opening session, Miloš Marković, General Director of the Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation, highlighted the critical role of cross-border initiatives in fostering long-term regional growth. “Through 83 completed projects valued at over €25 million, we have united public institutions, local governments, educational establishments, and civil sectors to produce tangible results,” Marković stated.
Key officials from Albania and Kosovo also attended the event. Rando Kote, Head of the Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation in Albania, stressed the importance of capitalizing on shared experiences. “This allows us to convert experience into knowledge, knowledge into policy, and policy into lasting impact,” he noted.
Emphasizing local empowerment, Jeton Čelja, Secretary of State in Kosovo’s Ministry of Local Self-Government, remarked, “When local governments are supported and empowered, they become drivers of economic, cultural, and social development.”
The benefits of cross-border projects for ordinary citizens were also underscored by Sanja Bečanović, Acting General Director of the Directorate for Financing and Contracting EU Funds in Montenegro’s Ministry of Finance. “These projects clearly demonstrate how cross-border cooperation can bring concrete benefits to citizens—through employment, strengthening local economies, and preserving cultural and natural heritage,” she affirmed.
The event featured a panel discussing the impact of EU-funded cross-border projects on vulnerable groups, such as youth and individuals with disabilities. Participants agreed that strong employer involvement and institutional partnerships are essential for sustainable employment opportunities.
The session on tourism and cultural heritage highlighted the necessity of authentic local values and community engagement in successful cross-border tourism. Participants emphasized that education and eco-standards significantly enhance the quality of tourism offerings.
As the session on environmental protection commenced, concrete ecological activities were showcased, revealing visible improvements in local communities’ quality of life. Participants concurred that a collaborative approach and knowledge exchange remain crucial in addressing common ecological challenges.
The event serves as a vital platform for sharing experiences, inspiring new projects, and strengthening regional cooperation and European integration for Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo.
What happens next? The MEP and regional stakeholders will look to build on the momentum from this event, seeking to implement sustainable investments and enhance cross-border networks. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
