The collaboration between the Government of Montenegro and the United Nations Country Team is in complete harmony with the nation’s priorities, chiefly focusing on realizing the Sustainable Development Agenda and pursuing European Union membership. This assessment was made during the meeting of the Joint Country Steering Committee tasked with monitoring the implementation of the five-year UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-27, co-chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović and the UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro Diego Zorrilla.

During the meeting, participants underscored the strong connection between Agenda 2030 and the country’s EU accession while reviewing recent progress and the plans for 2025 that both the Government and the UN system are implementing together, as part of the strategic five-year Cooperation Framework 2023-2027.

Minister Ibrahimović highlighted the significance of a robust partnership with the United Nations system in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and reinforcing the building blocks of a democratic society in Montenegro. He expressed appreciation to the UN Resident Coordinator Office and representatives of all UN agencies for their professionalism and commitment, as well as for the progress made to date.

“The achievements in 2024 lay a strong foundation for further strengthening our collaborative actions,” Ibrahimović stated. He particularly noted Montenegro’s dedication to effective multilateral efforts, grounded in the principles of the rule of law and respect for human rights and freedoms, emphasizing that “Montenegro, in light of current geopolitical circumstances, advocates for a more efficient, effective, and transparent UN, prepared to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.”

The UN Resident Coordinator remarked that Montenegro is acknowledged for its active UN membership and commitment to multilateralism.

“In the current geopolitical climate, marked by conflict and uncertainty, enhancing cooperation among nations is crucial,” Zorrilla asserted, pointing out that the UN is currently dealing with a significant liquidity crisis, necessitating transformative thinking regarding resource allocation.

“The UN International Conference on Financing for Development, set to take place in Seville in July, will concentrate on reforming the financial architecture and tackling financial obstacles to facilitate the investments urgently required for fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals,” Zorrilla noted, referencing the strategic UN document ‘Pact for the Future,’ which was ratified by member states at the 2024 Summit for the Future to modernize international cooperation in response to contemporary challenges.

Zorrilla emphasized the strong partnership between Montenegro and the United Nations, affirming that the UN system in the country remains dedicated to supporting the Government of Montenegro on its pathway to the European Union and in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

The five-year development plan – UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027, is a collaborative effort involving 19 UN agencies in conjunction with the Government of Montenegro, working alongside national and international partners. It outlines support from the UN system in Montenegro across three strategic areas:

• Inclusive economic development and environmental sustainability
• Human capital development, reducing vulnerability, and fostering social inclusion
• Social cohesion, people-centered governance, rule of law, and human rights