The Minister of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, Aleksandar Martinović, PhD, and the UNDP Resident Representative in the Republic of Serbia, Yakup Beris, have discussed today the results of the close cooperation between MDULS and UNDP and potential joint activities and projects in the future.
Martinović has emphasized the continuation of implementation of the ongoing and new projects aimed at improving local infrastructure as a priority, through investing in the construction and rehabilitation of public buildings, green markets and public lighting systems in Local Self-government Units. As he has stated, the everyday life of citizens shall be made easier by doing so, and the standard of living in cities and municipalities shall rise.
Referring to the comment made by the Prime Minister, Ana Brnabić, that citizens should communicate with the state electronically as much as possible, he has emphasized that the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government and the Government of the Republic of Serbia are committed to continuing the digitization process in public administration. As an example of good practice, the minister has cited the eParliament project, which contributes to increasing the transparency and efficiency of the work of local assemblies.
The UNDP Resident Representative in the Republic of Serbia, Yakup Beris, has congratulated Martinović on his election as Minister of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, and wished him much success in work on this responsible position. He has stated that UNDP’s support shall continue to be directed towards the Public Administration Reform and Reform of the Local Self-government, digitization and gender equality.
The continuation of cooperation within the Network of Women Mayors and Presidents of Municipalities in Serbia was also discussed at the meeting, with the aim of linking up and exchanging the experiences of female leaders at the local level and identifying the type of support they need most in order to overcome the challenges and development limitations in their local communities. Martinović has pointed out the commitment of the Republic of Serbia to incite and encourage women to participate in public and political life, which will contribute to the achievement of essential gender equality in the country.