As regards research, in July 2008 the government adopted a strategy for scientific and research activities in Montenegro for the period 2008-2010, which defines the science and technology (S&T) priorities and sets out an annual budget for research, aiming at a gradual increase.
Montenegro is also actively considering how to strengthen its national research capacity in terms of research infrastructure and human resources and reforming the funding of national research projects.

International cooperation is being improved. A bilateral S&T agreement was concluded with Slovenia on 3 July 2008, and agreements with other countries (Albania, Croatia, Greece and Serbia) are in the pipeline. The memorandum of understanding associating Montenegro to the Seventh EC Research Framework Programme (FP7) was signed in Brussels on 25 January 2008 with effect from 1 January 2008. The implementing measures (setting up national contact points, relations with the Board of Governors of the Joint Research Centre, and nomination of observers in Programme Committees and other research groups) were taken on time. Participation in FP7 has improved compared with FP6.
The reform of the statistical system in the field of science and research and adjustment to the EU system is at an initial stage. The Ministry of Education is conducting related activities in cooperation with MONSTAT.

Overall, there has been progress in strengthening the legal framework and the quality assurance system for education. Further progress is needed to implement a comprehensive lifelong learning policy. There has been good progress on research, particularly regarding development of a strategy and of regional and international cooperation, including with the EU.