13 December 2023, Podgorica

In a meeting held on December 13, 2023, in Podgorica, they emphasised the significance of reinforcing administrative capabilities to fulfill EU accession responsibilities effectively. They highlighted the importance of collaboration between state administration bodies and the ReSPA to enhance the knowledge and skills of civil servants and employees. This collaboration aims to fortify public administration, a key aspect in meeting the requirements for EU membership.

Handjiska-Trendafilova expressed contentment with the ongoing successful partnership between both institutions and anticipated its continuation at the same high standards, emphasising that “ReSPA stands ready to assist Montenegro and other Western Balkans administrations in developing and reinforcing the necessary administrative capacities essential for EU accession”.

Gorčević conveyed satisfaction with the current collaboration with ReSPA and outlined the Ministry of European Affairs' plans to bolster its department's capacities and the overall negotiation structure. She stressed the necessity of robust institutions and competent personnel for a successful negotiation process and for effectively utilizing opportunities after EU membership, and highlighted "For the successful completion of the negotiation process, and in particular, for the efficient use of the opportunities that will be available to us when we become a member of the EU, we must have strong institutions and professional and quality personnel. Improving knowledge and skills, while retaining professional staff in the negotiation structure is imperative on our European path."

The meeting also addressed the future modalities of collaboration between the two institutions, focusing on upcoming strategies and joint efforts in the forthcoming period.