McCann: Montenegro is getting closer to where it belongs, the heart of the European family

Montenegro is getting closer to where it belongs, the heart of the European family, said the British Ambassador to Montenegro, Dawn McCann.

She said this while addressing a reception hosted by the British Embassy in Podgorica on the occasion of the official birthday of King Charles III.

"The British Embassy in Podgorica hosted a reception to mark the official birthday of His Majesty King Charles III, one of the most important events organised by the United Kingdom around the world. This year's reception was held in a year in which Montenegro marks 20 years since the restoration of independence, while the United Kingdom and Montenegro approach the celebration of almost 150 years of the first diplomatic relations, from the British recognition of Montenegrin independence in 1878 to today's close partnership within NATO," the statement said.

The British Embassy added that the celebration "brought together guests from different parts of Montenegrin society, from institutions and the diplomatic community, civil society, business, culture, to the media and education, confirming that relations between the United Kingdom and Montenegro are not built only through institutions, but also through people, ideas and everyday cooperation."

Addressing the guests, McCann said that this year's celebration has a special meaning for her, as it also represents a moment of farewell, as she will be leaving Montenegro later this summer to take on a new position in the region.

"Three years is certainly too short to really get to know Montenegro, but it is more than enough to form a deep bond with this beautiful and special country, with all its strengths, its complexity, and its occasional imperfections. I was very lucky to have the opportunity to work here, and the experience enriched me. Wherever the future takes me, a part of this country will go with me," Meken emphasized.

She added that during her mandate she witnessed a time of positive change in Montenegro, a country that, as she stated, has a clear sense of direction, renewed energy and determination to implement reforms important for its citizens.

"Montenegro is moving ever closer to where it belongs, at the heart of the European family. Your progress is real and encouraging, not only for you, but for the wider region. The United Kingdom is proud to have supported you. We will continue to do so, standing with Montenegro as it looks confidently towards its European future," said McCann.

The British Embassy announced that the guests were also addressed by the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, who emphasized that the United Kingdom, after the restoration of Montenegrin independence, was one of the key pillars of Montenegro in many areas of cooperation.

"In strengthening institutions, the rule of law, public administration reform, the development of civil society, and especially in our full membership in NATO. The presence of the United Kingdom in the Western Balkans, through security initiatives, educational programs, cultural exchange and support for regional stability, and activities within the Berlin Process, which Montenegro will host in October this year, demonstrates a consistency that is rare in contemporary international politics. It is a consistency that does not depend on the current political cycle, but on a long-term vision. Therefore, our obligation is not only to cherish the tradition of this friendship. Our obligation is to turn it into a political responsibility towards the future," Milatović emphasized.