The Mayor of the Royal Capital of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, and the Ambassador of Ukraine to Montenegro, Oleh Herasimenko, planted a Montenegrin-Ukrainian friendship tree, as a symbol of mutual respect, cooperation and solidarity between the two peoples, the Public Relations Office of the Royal Capital of Cetinje announced.
As announced, Đurašković said that the tradition of diplomatic and moral orientation of Cetinje also represents a contemporary imperative for the Montenegrin capital, and that it is precisely for this reason that, from the very beginning of the war, the citizens of this city have voluntarily expressed their sympathy for the people of Ukraine in ways that were sincere, dignified and deeply human.
"In a time when many are looking for reasons for division, when silence cannot be interpreted other than as tacit support for injustice, and when symbols speak louder than words, today we confirm what Cetinje has always known - that the most valuable relationships are those that are nurtured in difficult times. A city that has known throughout the centuries to be both the cultural capital and diplomatic center of Montenegro, a city that has inherited the spirit of international cooperation and openness, has always known how to recognize and support those who fight for freedom, dignity and peace," said Đurašković.
He added that today, when we witness a brutal attempt to forcefully change the will of a free people, Cetinje and Montenegro stand clearly and unequivocally against aggression, against violence, and with the people of Ukraine, who, like ours, have gone through numerous trials throughout history.
"This is a moral obligation and a fundamental value of Montenegrin society, in which freedom has never been taken for granted, but has always been fought for - just as we fight today, not with weapons, but with attitude, words, support and solidarity."
Ukrainian Ambassador to Montenegro Oleh Herasimenko said that the tree that was planted will be a living monument to friendship and a common European future.
"Today, Ukraine is going through a difficult period of struggle for freedom and independence. In these circumstances, Montenegro's support, consistent and principled, is of exceptional importance for the Ukrainian people. We especially appreciate, of course, the solidarity of brotherly Cetinje. This proud city under Lovćen showed special empathy with the Ukrainian people as soon as the Russian all-out armed invasion began. Dear Cetinje residents, thank you once again for the solidarity you have shown and continue to show," said Herasimenko.
The Public Relations Office of the Royal Capital of Cetinje recalled that the friendly relationship between the Royal Capital of Cetinje and the Ukrainian city of Kharkov was formalized in 2011 with the signing of the Protocol on Cooperation, as the ultimate result of a sincere intention to build a bridge of friendship between two communities that share similar historical and cultural destinies.
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