The United States of America (USA) is making difficult decisions on security, energy, and the economy. These choices are not made in isolation. The difficult decisions we make will bring prosperity to America, Montenegro, and the entire democratic community.
This was announced by the US Ambassador to Montenegro, Judy Rising Reinke, at the opening of the new building of the US Embassy in Montenegro.
"We are here to build a better future with the people of Montenegro. This building is not just a building, it is a promise. The United States and Montenegro have had friendly relations for 120 years. This building represents respect for Montenegro, and it was built with stone from Nikšić. This is the home of diplomacy. I am sure John Jackson would be delighted with the appearance of the embassy today. Montenegro matters - our alliance matters," said Rising Reinke.
She then quoted Petar II Petrović Njegoš:
"It's easy to be good in good times, heroes are recognized in hardship," said the US ambassador.
Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović said that the opening of the new embassy is not just an architectural achievement, but also demonstrates the US commitment to Montenegro.
"This event is not just ceremonial, it is much more important than that. The principles of democracy, the rule of law and freedom shape our partnership. This year we celebrate 120 years of relations between Montenegro and the United States. Our partnership has survived through various challenging periods. The support we have received from the United States is invaluable. Our cooperation is at a very high level," said Milatović.
He said that by achieving Montenegro's goal of becoming the next EU member, the US will have "another friend in the European family."
"I firmly believe that the strength of our countries lies in the relationships of people, which continue to flourish. Although we are geographically different, our values are the same. We see the United States as a partner that nurtures relations, and on behalf of all Montenegrin citizens, I thank you. Long live the friendship between Montenegro and the United States," said Milatović.
Director of the US Bureau of Overseas Construction (OBO) Patricia Lessina said that she was honored to be in Podgorica today.
"Watching the transformation over the years, it's great to see how the US-Montenegro alliance has progressed. This building represents a lasting investment in our countries' relationship. This is a friendship that will last for many years. This project represents a major local economic investment worth approximately $71 million. I'm glad I had the opportunity to experience what makes Montenegro so special," Lesina said.
The ceremony was attended by: Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development Nik Đeljošaj, Minister of Internal Affairs Danilo Šaranović, Minister of Defense Dragan Krapović, Minister of Maritime Affairs Filip Radulović, Minister of Education, Science and Innovation Anđela Jakšić Stojanović, Minister of Human and Minority Rights Fatmir Đeka, Minister of Public Administration Maraš Dukaj, Minister of Culture and Media Tamara Vujović, Acting Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović, Supreme State Prosecutor Milorad Marković, Special State Prosecutor Vladimir Novović, Chief of the General Staff of the Army of Montenegro Zoran Lazarević, Head of the Europe Now Parliamentary Group Vasilije Čarapić, Head of the Democrats Parliamentary Group Boris Bogdanović, President of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) Danijel Živković, Vice President of that party Ivan Vuković, Head of the Social Democrats Parliamentary Group and Representative of the European Union Boris Mugoša...
The US government invested $264 million in the construction of the new complex.
"During the first phase, the beginning of which was marked by the laying of the cornerstone in 2020, four of the six new buildings were built, utility infrastructure was improved, and the outer fence was renovated. In the second phase, which is underway, the remaining two buildings will be built, and the remaining works will be completed by 2027," the US Embassy in Podgorica announced.
They said the new complex, designed "to the highest standards of efficiency and safety," reflects the United States' continued commitment to Montenegro.
Bonus video:
