Possibilities for cooperation between the Municipality of Tivat and UNDP in the European integration process

The Mayor of Tivat Municipality, Željko Komnenović, met with the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Montenegro, Ekaterina Paniklova, with whom he discussed possibilities for future cooperation in the implementation of development projects and strengthening the capacities of local self-government within the process of Montenegro's accession to the European Union.

During the meeting, as announced by Komnenović's office, possibilities for cooperation between the Municipality of Tivat and UNDP were presented, which will be defined in a Memorandum of Understanding, the signing of which is expected in the coming period. The Memorandum will establish a framework for joint action in the areas of sustainable local development, green transition, energy efficiency, digitalization of public administration, strengthening institutional capacities, human resource development, social policies, culture and innovation, with the aim of supporting local governments in the implementation of European policies and standards.

"Our discussion highlighted concrete opportunities for working together to shape the future of Tivat - from sustainable local development and greener public services to digitalization, strengthening municipal capacities and investing in people. UNDP looks forward to supporting the Municipality in implementing global standards and innovative solutions that improve the quality of life of Tivat's citizens and further enrich the experience of its visitors," said Paniklova.

Komnenović pointed out the challenges faced by local governments, especially in terms of uneven regional development and limited spatial management capabilities, given that the coastal area is managed at the state level, as well as the multi-year wait for the adoption of the Spatial and Urban Plan, which is a basic prerequisite for the further planned development of the city. Komnenović also reminded that, according to the new Draft Law on Local Self-Government, Tivat is the only one that meets the conditions for acquiring city status, thanks to stable public finances, a high share of own revenues and no tax debts.

The interlocutors assessed that local governments play a key role in the European integration process, since the majority of European legislation and policies are implemented at the local level.