Minister of Health Vojislav Šimun and EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides signed an agreement associating Montenegro to the EU4Health programme.

This marks the first visit of a Minister of Health to Brussels since Montenegro began its EU membership negotiations in 2012.

The EU4Health programme, initiated by the European Union, aims to strengthen healthcare systems across Europe. With a budget of €5.3 billion for the period 2021-2027, this programme represents the largest EU support for the health sector to date.

Minister Šimun, after signing the agreement, mentioned that participating in the EU4Health programme would grant Montenegro access to EU funds for strengthening its healthcare system. This includes aspects related to digital transformation, mental health, the European Health Data Space, global health, non-communicable diseases, and participation in the EU network of integrated oncology centers.

The Minister highlighted that this step sends a clear message that health is a priority for the EU in the coming period. He expects multiple benefits for Montenegro's healthcare system, such as capacity strengthening, efficient resource utilization, and improved preparedness for emergencies.

By signing this agreement, Montenegro continues to enhance its collaboration with the European Union, taking another significant step towards EU membership, a top foreign policy priority for the Government of Montenegro.

After Norway, Iceland, Moldova, and Ukraine, Montenegro has joined EU countries in this programme, demonstrating our determination and readiness to further improve and advance our national healthcare system through quality project tasks. The fact that our country is the first among the Western Balkan countries to join this programme makes me particularly proud, as our state once again proves to be a leader in European integration, emphasised Minister Šimun.

Commissioner Kyriakides expressed her satisfaction with the signing of the agreement and hopes that the implementation of this programme will enhance healthcare protection within the Union and beyond. She highlighted the importance of joint efforts and solidarity, especially in light of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through collaboration and solidarity, positive changes benefiting our citizens within the European Union and beyond will be achieved. This partnership will strengthen not only Montenegro but also other EU member states, as well as Norway, Ukraine, and Moldova. We will allow Montenegro to participate in political discussions with EU member states in setting the priorities of the EU4Health programme, ensuring mutual benefits for your country, stated Commissioner Kyriakides.

During a bilateral meeting with Commissioner Kyriakides, held after the agreement signing, it was emphasised that participating in this programme is another step closer to Montenegro's EU membership. The new vision for developing the healthcare system is fully aligned with EU priorities and principles.

Upon Minister Šimun's invitation, Commissioner Kyriakides accepted an official visit to Montenegro, expressing her hope that Montenegro will be the next, 28th member state of the EU during her term, having already visited all 27 current EU member states.