Xu to Spajić: Your leadership accelerates Montenegro’s accession to the European Union

Prime Minister meets with Acting Administrator of UNDP Haoliang Xu

Nearly two decades of partnership between Montenegro and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have yielded tangible benefits for citizens, particularly in the modernisation of the social-protection system, digitalisation of public services, green transition, and the strengthening of inclusive governance and institutional capacities.

This was the conclusion at a meeting between Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and Acting Administrator of UNDP Haoliang Xu.

Both parties agreed that cooperation between the Government of Montenegro and UNDP has been of particular importance in supporting the country on its path towards EU membership, by strengthening the rule of law, transparency, and the efficiency of public administration.

Prime Minister Spajić emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership with UNDP for Montenegro’s overall economic and social development.

UNDP has long been a reliable partner of Montenegro in modernising institutions and improving citizens’ quality of life. Our successful cooperation reaffirms our shared commitment to the principles of sustainable development and an inclusive society. We particularly value the support UNDP provides in processes that bring us closer to full EU membership – our key strategic goal. The Government remains dedicated to deepening this cooperation further, to achieve strategic reforms and development based on knowledge, accountability, and equal opportunities for all, said the Prime Minister.

Acting Administrator of UNDP Xu commended Prime Minister Spajić’s leadership in accelerating Montenegro’s EU accession and maintaining its position as a frontrunner in the Western Balkans.

For almost two decades, UNDP has supported the Government of Montenegro in modernising social protection, digitalising public services, advancing the green transition, and strengthening inclusive governance and institutional capacities. These long-term partnership initiatives promote sustainable development and demonstrate how strategic collaboration can drive systemic change and speed up European integration, ensuring that no one is left behind, said Xu.

Both sides underlined their readiness to continue, through partnership, to contribute to building a prosperous society for all citizens and to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in line with national priorities and international standards.