Dear Minister Culafic, dear Damjan,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Today marks an important milestone in the collaboration between the European Union and Montenegro on environment and climate: Montenegros association with the LIFE programme.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to you, Minister, for your key role in making this association a reality.
The LIFE programme is more than just a financial mechanism from the EU. It is our way to turn commitment into reality, supporting organizations that aim to make a real difference for nature and climate, benefiting us all.
Your decision to join the LIFE programme reflects your dedication to preserve our planets health and promote sustainable development. This is now an officially shared commitment. Let us be proud of this achievement.
By joining the LIFE programme, Montenegro is seizing a great opportunity. You will be able to engage in impactful environmental projects and gain access to best practices, technical expertise, and crucial financial resources. Aligning with EU standards will add value and credibility beyond immediate opportunities.
Like many other countries, Montenegro faces significant environmental and climate challenges, including waste management and air and water pollution.
Addressing these challenges is crucial to protect the countrys rich biodiversity and natural resources while promoting a low-carbon and sustainable economy.
The EU is proud to be your partner in this endeavor. It is a journey we are taking together.
In the increasingly complex political landscape, we recognize that the only way to ensure true security, prosperity, and quality of life for our citizens is by managing our nature and resources responsibly.
This requires concerted effort and commitment from all stakeholders, including the private sector, public authorities, and civil society – typical beneficiaries of the LIFE programme.
On a personal note, I recently visited a LIFE project outside Rome and was impressed by the tangible improvements it achieved.
The project, known as PRIMED, focused on restoring priority habitats in Mediterranean coastal areas in Greece and Italy.
What struck me, beyond the concrete results, was the motivation, enthusiasm, and pride of those working on the project.
This experience showed me the potential of the LIFE programme to make a meaningful and lasting impact.
This is a great example of what can be achieved when stakeholders work together towards a common goal, and LIFE plays an active role in strengthening these partnerships.
I look forward to seeing similar examples in your country soon.
Today, we embark on a promising journey of growth, cooperation, and shared dedication to a sustainable future for us and generations to come.
Let us enter this partnership with optimism and determination, knowing that together, we can make a difference.
Thank you again for all your efforts
… and again, a warm welcome to Montenegro as the newest member of the LIFE family!
