President Jakov Milatović announced that he will submit an initiative to the Montenegrin Parliament to adopt a Declaration declaring Montenegro a "country of wine".
At the ceremony marking International Grapevine Day, he said that he was pleased to have had the opportunity to open the first ceremony marking the day dedicated to the oldest indigenous grape variety, which reflects the rich enological, historical and cultural tradition of Montenegro.
Milatović pointed to the results of scientific research that confirmed that Montenegro is the cradle of short stature.
"This variety is a symbol of our climate, culture, tradition and customs, but also the efforts of generations that have nurtured and preserved it to this day. By restoring and preserving Kratošija, we are simultaneously preserving the authenticity of Montenegro and building the foundations for the further development of the Montenegrin wine scene," said Milatović.
He recalled an important step in the affirmation of this variety, the recent signing of the Declaration on the Proclamation of International Kratoshia Day, together with the European Order of Wine Knights - Legatura Montenegro, representatives of the Government, the company 13. jul Plantaže, the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro, and associations of Montenegrin sommeliers and winegrowers and winemakers.
By doing so, he said, they sent a clear message - that Montenegro has the potential and ambition to position itself as a recognizable destination on the regional, European and global wine map.
"I would like to especially thank all the signatories of the aforementioned Declaration, but also all the winemakers, producers, experts and enthusiasts who are dedicated to our common mission - to make Montenegro synonymous with the land of wine," said Milatović.
He announced that he would submit an initiative to the Montenegrin Parliament for the adoption of a Declaration declaring Montenegro a "country of wine".
"In this way, we want to, in a symbolic way, confirm our state and spiritual relationship towards the preservation and development of the winemaking tradition, on behalf of those who built that tradition, and on behalf of those to whom we leave it as a legacy," said Milatović.
He emphasized that Montenegro has exceptional climatic conditions, diverse soils from Crmnica to Zagarače, from Bjelopavlić to Ćemovsko polje, as well as a centuries-long history of viticulture and winemaking.
"Our potential in this area has not yet been fully utilized. That is why we need state, economic and social synergy to improve quality, protect indigenous varieties, support producers, increase the export of Montenegrin wines to international markets and develop wine tourism," said Milatović.
International Shortbread Day is held under the patronage of the President of the country, organized by the European Order of Wine Knights OEVE – Legatura Montenegro, in cooperation with the company 13. jul Plantaže and the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Montenegro.
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