Montenegro and Greece are committed to strengthening strategic cooperation in the field of culture, with a special focus on the protection of cultural heritage, institutional networking and knowledge exchange.
This was announced at a meeting between the Minister of Culture and Media of Montenegro, Tamara Vujović, and the Minister of Culture of Greece, Lina Mendoni, in Athens.
Vujović and Mendoni, as announced, discussed models of joint action through specific projects, exchange of experts and experiences, as well as strengthening ties between national cultural institutions, within the framework of the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Culture, which Montenegro and Greece have signed.
"One of the key points of the meeting was the initiative to assess the condition of the icon of the Virgin Filermosa, a relic of inestimable value," the statement said.
It is added that Mendoni emphasized that Greece has recognized the importance of this icon and confirmed that a team of renowned experts from that country will soon be visiting Montenegro to develop a protection plan, together with local experts.
"Special emphasis was placed on cooperation in the field of archaeological heritage, with consideration of the possibility of joint research and valorization of sites such as Duklja, Crvena stijena and sites in Risan," the statement said.
It is added that the goal is to include them in sustainable cultural and tourist flows, while respecting the principles of preservation and education.
"More than 23 thousand archaeological sites, included in the digitalization process in Greece, were presented as an example of successful practice that Montenegro wants to follow," the statement said.
The meeting, it was added, was also an opportunity to open new chapters of cooperation in the areas of preservation of archaeological and underwater heritage, as well as the digitization of cultural material.
Vujović and Mendoni emphasized that it is necessary to create an environment in which cultural tourism will become a strong development resource, adding that cultural heritage is not just a trace of the past, but the foundation of the future of every community.
Montenegro, as Vujović pointed out, sees Greece as an extremely important partner in regional cooperation.
"The same applies in the context of European integration, especially when it comes to harmonizing cultural policies and strengthening the creative sector," said Vujović.
She thanked Greece for its continued support for Montenegro's European path.
Mendoni confirmed a strong willingness to intensify cooperation, both through bilateral projects and joint appearances within the framework of European Union (EU) funds and international cultural forums.
She emphasized that Greece, with its rich experience in the protection and presentation of cultural heritage, from the Acropolis to archaeological museums across the country, wants to share this knowledge with Montenegro in order to create sustainable models of development through culture.
Vujović and Mendoni, as announced, emphasized the importance of cooperation between institutions in the field of cultural creativity, and cited the National Cinematographic Center and the Film Center of Montenegro as a positive example.
It is added that the formation of joint expert teams has been agreed upon, which will work on the operationalization of all agreed initiatives and projects, thus opening a new chapter in the cultural relations between the two countries.
Bonus video:
