Members of the Montenegrin Army carried the Montenegrin flag at the military parade on the occasion of France Day

"Presence at the military parade on the occasion of the French national holiday, Bastille Day, is a great honor for Montenegro and another confirmation that we belong to the European family," said Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović.

At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, he attended a military parade in Paris today to mark July 14, France's national holiday.

Milatović was among the heads of state and government who watched the military parade, along with leaders of the European Union and NATO.

"This year's parade, held under the title 'Strategic Awakening of Europe', brought together France's allies and partners and was dedicated to European unity, common security, preserving peace and defending democratic values," the president's office said in a statement.

Montenegro was also represented at the ceremony through the participation of members of the Montenegrin Army, who carried the Montenegrin flag along one of the most famous European avenues.

Milatović assessed that this event has strong national, allied and European significance for Montenegro.

Video MO/TF1

"Today, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Montenegro participated for the first time in a large military parade on the occasion of the French national holiday, Bastille Day. This is a great honor for Montenegro and another confirmation that we belong to the European family. I took this opportunity to speak with numerous European leaders on the sidelines of the large gathering in Paris. The message I heard was clear: Montenegro is the next member of the European Union," said Milatović.

It is up to us, he added, to close all negotiation chapters by the end of the year.

"I am optimistic that by 2028 we will achieve our strategic goal and become the 28th member state of the European Union. It was a special pleasure to see members of the Montenegrin Army proudly carrying the Montenegrin flag on the Champs-Elysees, side by side with the armies of European allied countries. It is a moment that represents an honor for our army, recognition for our country and pride for all citizens of Montenegro," said Milatović.

The statement also states that Montenegro's presence among European allies at one of the most important state ceremonies in Europe confirms its international credibility and further strengthens our country's European path.