Ibrahimović: The Western Balkans Fund as a Bridge of Trust and the Region’s European Future

The Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović opened an event on February 20, 2026, in Podgorica to mark the beginning of Montenegro’s presidency of the Western Balkans Fund 2026, emphasizing that assuming this responsible role represents both an honor and an obligation of Montenegro toward the region and its European future.

In his address, Minister Ibrahimović highlighted that Montenegro has, for two decades, consistently built a reputation as a reliable and responsible partner in the region, committed to political dialogue, good neighborly relations, and stability. “Our European path is clear, steady, and unwavering. Today, Montenegro stands at the threshold of the European Union, confirming its role as a frontrunner in the accession process,” the Minister stated.

He recalled that the Western Balkans Fund holds special value as a unique regional initiative focused primarily on people and their needs.

Speaking about the priorities of Montenegro’s presidency, the Minister emphasized that the focus will be on achieving concrete results, strengthening the visibility of the Fund, and enhancing the principle of regional ownership. Special emphasis will be placed on deepening cooperation through inclusive projects, strengthening the capacities of grant beneficiaries to ensure sustainable and measurable impact, as well as positioning the Fund more strongly within the European and international framework.

Minister Ibrahimović expressed gratitude to the European Commission, the Swiss Confederation, Japan, Germany, and the International Visegrad Fund for their continuous and principled support to the Western Balkans Fund, noting that their partnership confirms trust in regional cooperation and the European perspective of the Western Balkans.

In conclusion, the Minister stated that the strength of the region is not measured by its differences, but by the ability to turn them into advantages. “Our vision is a Western Balkans grounded in European values, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Together, we can build a stronger Fund, a more connected region, and a Western Balkans firmly anchored in the European family,” Ibrahimović emphasized.

A welcome address was also delivered by Gjergj Murra, Executive Director of the Western Balkans Fund, highlighting the importance of continuously strengthening regional cooperation through concrete and inclusive projects that connect citizens, institutions, and civil society across the Western Balkans.

As part of the program, MOVE grants were awarded to beneficiaries from Montenegro, further emphasizing the commitment to enhancing mobility, exchange, and cooperation among youth and organizations in the region.

During the ceremony, the first Cooperation Agreement between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Western Balkans Fund was signed, further strengthening efforts toward a stable, resilient, and interconnected Western Balkans based on mutual respect and a shared European future. At the same time, the partnership with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation was renewed for the period 2026–2029.

The program continued with a panel discussion titled “Enhancing Regional Cooperation through Strategic Partnerships and Inclusive Approaches,” featuring representatives of the European Union Delegation, Switzerland, Japan, the International Visegrad Fund, and the Center for Affirmation of Sports and Youth.