Congratulations on Independence Day

On May 21, Montenegro celebrates Independence Day and 18 years since it restored state independence in a referendum.

On this occasion, congratulations were sent by ministers, representatives of parties, local self-governments, non-governmental organizations...

Crnogorčić: The struggle for a Montenegro of strong institutions, the rule of law and social cohesion is still ongoing

With the restoration of the statehood of our Montenegro, 18 years ago, the path of establishing it as a source of regional stability, a reliable Euro-Atlantic partner and an inviolable multi-ethnic democracy was chosen, Tamara Crnogorčić, vice president of Young Europe, announced today.

"Affirming the right to self-determination, the citizens of Montenegro voted for the path of freedom, prosperity and independence. Although we have restored independence, the struggle for a Montenegro with strong institutions, the rule of law and social cohesion is still going on, and we must persevere in it," said Crnogorčić in a statement submitted by the Europe Now Movement (PES).

She added that the results of the 44th Government so far demonstrate that perseverance and commitment to reforms, stable economic growth, improvement of infrastructure, and improvement of living standards.

"The praise of international partners, and the announced receipt of IBAR, unequivocally proves that Montenegro has taken the right path with the change of government, the one that the citizens decided on May 21, 2006. Young people are the bearers of the future of Montenegro and it is our responsibility to we preserve and improve our country. We continue our dedicated work on strengthening institutions, preserving natural resources and improving the quality of life of all citizens, because this is the only way Montenegro can move forward. This date symbolizes not only the restoration of independence, but also a new chapter in the thousand-year history of Montenegro in which courage and unity have always been the basis for further development and progress. The YES we said to Montenegro in 2006 is even more necessary today. We congratulate all the citizens of Montenegro on Independence Day. , said Crnogorčić.

Vujović: Proud of what has been achieved, happy about what comes next

The Minister of Culture and Media, Tamara Vujović, in her congratulatory message to the citizens, said that May 21 is one of the most important dates in the recent history of our country.

"We celebrate this day with pride, while we think about what we can do better and more to keep our young democracy, which is the only true path, in the right direction, to reach where democratic societies reach when they strengthen their ability to see themselves holistically and to they see themselves honestly. What are we doing right, where are we doing wrong? We are working to make everyone equal, to be created equal, and that means we know each other and respect each other make it unique," said Vujović.

"I believe that it is up to this generation of politicians and this Government, in which I proudly work for the benefit of our country, while we are creating a new history on the European road, to create real state policies that will increasingly include those who were previously excluded, marginalized, and discriminated against. While we create new values ​​that we will be proud of and while we create new opportunities that awaken our potential - let's preserve our cultural heritage and our rich cultural heritage. We are proud of what we have achieved, and we are happy for what is to come! The future is bright for us, Montenegro." .

NAU: Albanians proud to have supported the leaders of the independence project

The National Albanian Union (NAU) stated in its congratulatory message to the citizens that "referendum Montenegro and its heritage" are the only guarantor and the best guide for the further democratic development of our society.

"Albanians are proud to have unreservedly supported those who led the independence project, because an independent and sovereign pro-Western Montenegro creates the best environment for their equality in the multi-ethnic and civil society of our country. We are also proud of the fact that Montenegro is independent, soon after its proclamation, recognized the independent Republic of Kosovo and established and maintains friendly neighborly relations with that state," the announcement states.

Živković: Citizens will know how to preserve the most sacred

The president of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), Danijel Živković, said that Montenegro is celebrating one of the brightest dates in its history today.

"Eighteen years have passed since the most beautiful dawn that dawned on us on May 21, 2006, the day when we showed the world that it is possible to fight for state sovereignty and independence in a civilized manner in the Balkans. Behind us are eighteen years of hard work on building Montenegro as democratic states, oriented towards European values, the coexistence of diversity, the rule of law and respect for human rights. The Democratic Party of Socialists was and remains at the helm of these values," announced Živković.

Today, he said, "unfortunately, our country is going through a period of difficult challenges, exposed to the impact of retrograde policies that return us to a long-ago past, led by individuals who put narrow party and personal interests before state interests."

"I am convinced that the citizens of Montenegro, inheriting their libertarian tradition, will know how to preserve what is most sacred - renewed independence, the status of an internationally recognized state, which is taking big steps towards membership in the European Union. Only on our own, all together, driven by the desire to create conditions for a dignified life for everyone in our country, we will succeed in making Montenegro a beautiful place to live, social and economic progress. "May, the Independence Day of Montenegro. It is eternal," concluded the president of DPS.

Vujović: Montenegro has always won, it will do so now

The President of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Ivan Vujović said that today Montenegro is celebrating one of the most significant dates in its millennial history, when it restored its independence by the will of its citizens.

"After a decade of wandering and following other people's interests, the years before the referendum were years of rapid maturation, emancipation, learning about oneself, one's history and the need to be part of modern and civilized European societies," announced Vujović.

He says that Montenegro could never be explained by numbers.

"It lasted through the ages despite the more powerful, bigger, despite the fact that it bothered many people, but no one has ever managed to break the Montenegrin resistance, defiance and boundless love for the country. It was often 'nothing can happen'. That is why the power and strength of Montenegro Gore has always been immeasurably greater than the numbers that it has shown. The power of durability and strength is hard to match. We may have lost some battles, but in the end, Montenegro will always win, because of the challenges we are facing today they are small compared to what we have overcome many times. Happy coming of age to the renewed eternal Montenegro," Vujović wrote.

Injac: Montenegro to achieve results to be proud of

The mayor of Podgorica Olivera Injac said in her congratulatory message to the citizens that May 21 - Independence Day symbolizes "our common strength, unity and commitment to building a prosperous and democratic state".

"We have a duty to be worthy of a rich and glorious history, and as decision-makers in a sovereign, internationally recognized state, to be drivers of development that will ensure a better future for generations to come," Injac wrote.

In the past 18 years, he added, Montenegro directed the processes to achieve the consolidation of democracy and economy, the rule of law and the stability of institutions.

"The dynamic continuation of the process of integration into the European Union, the economic development of Montenegro, along with the strengthening of democratic processes and the rule of law, encourage that, by achieving these key goals, our country will become part of the developed family of EU members! Let this day remind us of the importance of solidarity and joint work for the benefit of all the citizens of Podgorica and Montenegro. Happy Independence Day and I wish Montenegro to achieve results to be proud of," concludes Injac.

Krapović: May a free and safe Montenegro be in everyone's heart

Today, Montenegro is celebrating the 18th anniversary of the restoration of independence, and its citizens enjoy the freedoms of a safe state, which has proven that, despite the current security challenges on the global level, it is a full member of the Euro-Atlantic family,' said Defense Minister Dragan Krapović, congratulating the 21st. May to the citizens, as well as to the members of the Army and the Ministry of Defense who, as he said, on this day honorably represent our country in the world.

Krapović said that "peace, cooperation, understanding and mutual respect for the differences that adorn our country have no alternative", and that these principles must be imperative for us.

"A free and safe Montenegro must be in everyone's heart, but let's not forget that good regional relations with our neighbors are equally important."

Krapović wished everyone "that this Independence Day, as well as every subsequent one, will pass in harmony and togetherness and encourage us to celebrate it proudly and harmoniously, regardless of all the differences that adorn our society".

"Dear citizens, members of the Ministry of Defense and the Army of Montenegro, happy Independence Day of Montenegro," he concluded.

MUP: We pay tribute to the freedom and the country that we are proud to protect

The Ministry of the Interior stated in its congratulatory message that today "we pay tribute not only to freedom, but also to the country that we proudly protect".

"Fighting against crime and corruption, protecting natural and cultural assets, guarding the borders of Montenegro, enabling citizens and foreigners to exercise their rights, creating a safe environment for life, today we pay tribute not only to freedom, but also to the country that we proudly protect," they stated. .

Đeljošaj: We resolutely remain on the reform course

The Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Policy and the Minister of Economic Development, Nik Đeljošaj, congratulated the citizens on the holiday, "with the wish that the memory of the many years of efforts to build a state based on freedom, dignity and progress, will be an incentive in the years ahead, in which we will crown our European road."

He said that "we resolutely remain on the course of reforms that we implement in agreement with our Euro-Atlantic friends", aware of the fact that the strength and independence of the state is reflected in economic progress, the rule of law - strong and independent institutions and a civic-oriented society.

"Let's remain an example - a leading country in the region and a principled ally of all global forces that advocate for peace, prosperity and the defense of civil sovereignty," Đeljošaj concluded.

GI "May 21": Montenegro will survive and the current compromising and decaying period

On this day, eighteen years ago, Montenegro restored statehood and became an internationally recognized state again, and there is no doubt that this is the most significant date in modern Montenegro, the Civic Initiative announced on May 21.

"We remind you that the restoration of an independent state is inextricably linked to a sovereign, pro-European, democratic, civic, solidary and secular political community. This is also the reason that May 21 should symbolize patriotic unity and the common commitment of citizens to a just, anti-fascist and pro-European state and open society Today, Montenegro is, unfortunately, far from the values ​​without which a renewed state would not make sense, but Montenegro will survive the current compromising and decaying period Notorious ignoramuses, political slobs, Belgrade puppets and neo-Ocetnik pops can't govern. That Montenegro is eternal," the announcement states.

CGO: Montenegro to become a country of responsible decision-makers

The coming of age of the restoration of the independence of Montenegro is an opportunity to celebrate, but also to think about how to make the state stronger, the institutions more professional, and the civic concept of society the engine of democratization and Europeanization, said the Center for Civic Education (CGO), congratulating on Independence Day.

They recalled the data from the CGO survey conducted in the fall of 2023, which indicate that more than 77 percent of citizens see independence as final and unquestionable, while for about 23 percent of them it is not yet a finished issue.

"The consequences of irresponsible state management can be seen in all areas, and it worries that bad practices have not changed in any of them, while in some they are even more widespread today than before. The social consensus on what kind of state Montenegro needs does not yet exist. The CGE appreciates that "It is important that we all work to make Montenegro a country of responsible decision-makers who put the state's interest above all personal and party interests, and will base their work on that in the future," said the NGO.

Pejović: Advocacy for peace, tolerance and cooperation must be at the heart of all our efforts

Vice President of the Parliament of Montenegro Boris Pejović stated in his congratulatory message that Montenegro today "marks one of the most significant dates" in its history – Independence Day.

"This day reminds us of May 21, 2006, when citizens 18 years ago in a referendum decided to restore their statehood and independence. The majority decision of the citizens of Montenegro that our country takes full responsibility for its future also means the necessity of further affirmation of civil society and democratic principles, based on equality, respect for human rights and diversity," wrote Pejović.

He said that advocating for peace, tolerance and cooperation, both within our borders and with our neighbors and international partners, must be "at the heart of all our efforts".

"We can proudly say that, after the transition of government, the situation in our country is finally better. The new government, dedicated to the strategic goal of Montenegro being a full member of the European Union, is also working dedicatedly to improve the economy, rule of law and strengthen institutions. The results that are achieved in a record short time allow us to look to the future with more optimism," added Pejović.

He already invited all citizens of Montenegro to spend this holiday in the spirit of togetherness and solidarity.

"Let this day inspire us to work together on the further development of our country, to preserve and improve the achieved values, and to continue to build a future in which every citizen of Montenegro will be able to realize his full potential. On behalf of the Parliament of Montenegro and personally name, I congratulate you on Independence Day and wish you much success, peace and well-being," concluded Pejović.

Milović: We can achieve all goals only together

Minister of Justice Andrej Milović said in his congratulatory message to citizens that today is an opportunity to "remember our rich history, courage and determination, which have always meant freedom in Montenegro."

"On this special day, we celebrate our shared past, but also look to the future with hope and determination to build a fairer and more prosperous society for all of us. Only together can we achieve all goals and hope for even greater success in the years to come. May this Independence Day, as well as every subsequent one, brings joy, pride and togetherness," Milović wrote.

Abazović: Montenegro has something to look forward to

President of the Citizens' Movement URA, Dritan Abazović, in his congratulatory message to the citizens, said that Montenegro has something to look forward to.

"Throughout history, we have gone through a thorny path to freedom, but it was worth it. Montenegro has something to look forward to. In the previous three years, we worked a lot on better distribution of justice throughout our country. Now we need to work together on greater economic well-being. Montenegro needs to become a member of the European Union, and in unity, in a tolerant atmosphere and in the promotion of multiculturalism, no goal is unattainable. In this, I want to congratulate you on May 21 - Montenegro's Independence Day, that we always look at the good and that together we achieve everything that our the citizens deserve it. Long live Montenegro," Abazović said.

Martinović: The European perspective brings new opportunities for development, cooperation and progress

The Minister of Tourism, Ecology, Sustainable Development and Development of the North Vladimir Martinović said in his congratulatory message to the citizens that Montenegro "remains known for its natural beauty, rich history and the warmth of its people."

"I especially want to emphasize our significant progress in the process of European integration. As a country that aspires to membership in the European Union, we are dedicated to fulfilling the criteria and reforms that will ensure a better future for all our citizens. The European perspective brings new opportunities for development, cooperation and progress in all fields. Let peace, prosperity and togetherness be the common denominator of all of us," wrote Martinović.

Vuković: By protecting each other, we also protect Montenegro

The President of the Nikšić Municipal Assembly, Nemanja Vuković, congratulated the citizens on the holiday, saying that "by protecting each other, we also protect Montenegro".

"With additional energy, in the time ahead we will continue the fight for a better Nikšić, contributing to the building of a better Montenegro - a state that belongs to every citizen and in which every citizen has equal rights. Thanks to the strong political will to embark on an uncompromising fight against crime and corruption, and determination to carry out quick and effective reforms, we ensured stability and opened the doors of the European Union. We must be aware of the importance of the current political moment and the historical opportunity that we must not miss, because joining the European family ensures development, prosperity, security, social justice," he said. Vuković.

President Nikšić emphasizes that "unity and harmony are our important assets on the EU path."

"Together, with mutual respect and appreciation, we must continue to preserve multi-ethnic and multi-religious harmony. And, by protecting each other, we also protect Montenegro, and build the paths of a bright future for everyone," concluded Vuković.

Bokeški Forum: Building a society in which the dignity of every individual will be respected

The Boke Forum stated in its congratulatory message that the most important thing in the time ahead is to try, "everyone in accordance with his capabilities", to build "a society in which the dignity of each individual will be respected".

Justice, legality, honesty, determination, progress, the European way... With all these hopes and wishes that the 'most beautiful prison in the world from the unfortunate 90s' becomes a place where life will be built on a human scale, we started from that 21 in May 2006. How many of these aspirations we have achieved, let everyone judge according to their will. The most important thing is that in the time ahead we try, each according to our capabilities, to build a society in which the dignity of each individual will be respected. In which everyone, regardless of religion, nation, race... will feel safe and respected. Because, in life, a man is allowed to lose everything except his dignity. Montenegro! With the desire that proud, dignified people live in you, we congratulate you on your and our Independence Day! That you are eternal," the card states.

Bogdanović: We are writing the most beautiful pages of Montenegrin history

Boris Bogdanović, head of the Club of Deputies and Secretary General of Democratic Montenegro, in his congratulatory message to the citizens, stated that Montenegro is "the country of all its citizens, no matter what nation or religion they are, their only home, motherland and land above which the sky is blue like nowhere else second".

"Our diversity is our greatest strength, but also the foundation of the fight for a better tomorrow and a society of equal opportunities. Today we are writing the most beautiful pages of Montenegrin history - we are one step away from the European family of nations and every day we invest all our strength and use all available resources to stand before Montenegro in 2028 Goram opened the doors of the European Union. Numerous challenges are behind us, many obligations are ahead of us, but guided by the unique goal and idea of ​​a European, modern and successful Montenegro, every obstacle is small and surmountable," said Bogdanović.

"The recent adoption of a new progressive model of benefits for newborns, the return of child allowances, mothers' benefits, higher old-age benefits, the provision of free textbooks, higher pensions and salaries is just one more of the nails hammered into the building called European Montenegro and the only real way to prove love for the homeland , safeguarding its citizens and its sovereignty. Convinced that every next Independence Day we will welcome closer to full membership in the European family of nations, in 2028 our borders will become eternally European, and that the flag of the European Union will fly alongside the Montenegrin flag, once again to all our citizens and I wish the citizens a happy Independence Day, Long Live Montenegro," concluded Bogdanović.

Bečić: Dedicated to the ideals that our ancestors left us as a legacy

Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić congratulated the citizens, saying that "our path was marked by numerous challenges that tested our determination and sincere patriotism".

"Nevertheless, it is precisely in those moments that we find our greatest strength. From the high peaks of Durmitor, all the way to the clear waters of Boka Kotorska, the beauty of our homeland is reflected in the unity and pride of our citizens. We continue to achieve success and write the pages of our book, celebrating the values ​​of democracy , freedom, equality and sovereignty. We confirm our commitment to the ideals that our ancestors left us as a legacy. It is our duty to cherish and preserve the principles that define us," said Bečić.

"At a time when we are resolutely walking the European path, when we have unblocked the judiciary and made the most important institutions in the country functional, Montenegro is on the way to strengthening the rule of law, a decisive fight against crime and corruption, and restoring the value system. On the field of struggle for a country of strong institutions and governance rights, we witness successfully implemented actions almost every day, which resulted in the breaking of smuggling chains, the seizure of large quantities of cigarettes and narcotics, the arrest and prosecution of both members of criminal groups, fugitives from justice, and numerous police, customs and other state officials and officials," he added. is the Deputy Prime Minister.

He said that Montenegro deserves "a country freed and cleansed of crime and corruption."

"Montenegro as a pillar of democracy and stability in the region, Montenegro as a country of independent and resilient institutions, a country of proud ancestors and worthy descendants and Montenegro as the 28th member of the great family of European countries in 2028! Strong institutions, reconciled and economically empowered citizens, a system cleansed of crime and corruption only guarantees the eternity of Montenegro and the secure future of those who will succeed us," said Bečić, and concluded:

"I take this opportunity to once again send you sincere congratulations on the occasion of Independence Day. Let's preserve our multi-ethnicity and multi-confessionalism, our persistent spirit and sincere love for our homeland. Let's preserve it for future generations, our heirs to whom we will leave this country. I express my gratitude to all our citizens who contributed and continue to contribute to the construction and defense of our country. Happy Independence Day Montenegro!"

Đurašković: A dream come true for many generations

The mayor of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, said that today we are proudly celebrating the most significant date in recent Montenegrin history - "the day when we peacefully and dignifiedly restored the independence of Montenegro and set out on the path of freedom and independence."

"On this day, 18 years ago, we started building a modern, European and civil state, a member of NATO and a future member of the European Union. Through challenges and victories, we built the foundations of our future - a modern, contemporary and European society," Đurašković announced.

He says that Cetinje played a key role in the restoration of Montenegrin independence, "because that process originated from our capital city".

"The restoration of Montenegrin independence was a dream for many generations of Cetinje who spread the idea of ​​the importance of Montenegrin identity. Today we look with pride at our past, with hope for our future and the continuation of a safe walk on the European path. With the desire to continue moving forward and to build together and we are creating a better future for our country, I congratulate you on May 21 - Montenegro's Independence Day. May Montenegro be eternal," Đurašković concluded.

Vulić: Muslims loyal to our only state, Montenegro

President of the National Council of Muslims of Montenegro, Sabrija Vulić, in his congratulatory message to the citizens, stated that all citizens in the country and the diaspora "who feel and declare themselves nationally as Montenegrin Muslims" and who "100% incorporated themselves into the restoration of the independence of Montenegro", proudly emphasize their commitment "to our only state, Montenegro", and with "elation and joy welcome the eighteenth birthday of renewed independence."

"Montenegrin Muslims, regardless of everything, will continue to be loyal to their only state, Montenegro, because they do not have a backup. They will remain loyal to Montenegro, even though they are often discriminated against, marginalized, even though they sometimes feel like second-class citizens, firmly believing that the day will come when they will not be victims of political compromises, agreements and negotiations. We expect that in the near future we will experience full satisfaction and prosperity in our own country and feel like equal citizens. We, Montenegrin Muslims, love our Montenegro, happy to share it with everyone else to citizens regardless of their religious and national affiliation, because Montenegro must be a country of equal rights. We believe that we will see that day. That Montenegro is eternal," concluded Vulić.

Šehović: Montenegro is capable of defending its freedom

By celebrating Independence Day, the glorious moment when we civilized and decisively chose the path of national sovereignty and independence, we confirm our firm determination to shape our own destiny, said the president of the Social Democrats (SD), Damir Šehović.

"We are aware that Montenegro needs to gather, but not around ideas that weaken, but rather those that essentially strengthen the renewed national independence that we celebrate, but also promote coexistence and mutual respect. "Our numerous differences must not separate us, but must unite us in the pursuit of institutional and any other form of rounding up the state, which must belong to everyone," Šehović pointed out.

The Social Democrats, he adds, are "proud to have always belonged to a part of a self-aware society that affirmed our cultural, religious, national and other specificities, that is, considered that civic orientation is the greatest achievement left to us as a legacy."

"Because we have always known that a modern, prosperous and European, i.e. eternal, Montenegro can only be built on these ideological assumptions," announced Šehović.

"However, this anniversary comes at a time when the challenges have not been greater for a long time. The momentum of outdated ideologies, which are trying to turn us back and turn us into a 'state without society', is a serious problem we are facing. Therefore, it is necessary to oppose such harmful tendencies, but also to work together to preserve the state-building values ​​that make us worthy of our libertarian tradition," says Šehović.

The SD leader says that he does not have the slightest dilemma "that there are more than enough of us to strongly resist it, but also to show that Montenegro is a country that not only fundamentally values ​​its freedom, but is also capable of defending it, always and in every place."

"Let this important day be our inspiration for further steps. Let our independence not only be a memory of the glorious millennial past, but also a pledge for the European future. With a special sense of pride and optimism, I congratulate all citizens of Montenegro on Independence Day. That Montenegro is eternal," Šehović concluded.

Raičević: The day when a historical dream came true

Bar Municipality President Dušan Raičević congratulated the citizens on Independence Day, saying that May 21, 2006 was the day "when 18 years ago, with a pen, we not only immortalized the historical struggle of our ancestors for an independent Montenegro, but also when we proudly decided in front of the entire democratic world to become independent and move swiftly towards our future that we deserve."

He said that May 21 "will forever be a source of pride for the realization of the historical dream of our citizens", but also "an eternal inspiration for all of us to cherish the values ​​that make our Montenegro special, the values ​​of multiculturalism and respect for the other and the different."

"Montenegro has achieved significant progress in the process of Euro-Atlantic integration and the adoption of the system of European values, and Bar is proud to be a part of that journey, contributing with its recognizable cosmopolitanism, which today represents the most beautiful face of modern Montenegro, which we are proud of. Our efforts are recognized not only within the borders of our country, but also at the international level, where Bar becomes an example of successful local development and the adoption of European standards, and we can rightly say that Bar is a place of life in the full sense of the word.

"Independence Day is our obligation to the generations that come after us. We must always remember that independence is not only a right, but also a responsibility. Our obligation is to continue building a society in which everyone will have equal chances for success, in which they will rule justice and respect for human rights We will continue investing in education, science, culture, as well as the preservation of natural resources, because the future of our descendants in Montenegro will depend on the foundations we are building today.

"I congratulate you on Independence Day, with the wish that every next one will be in a more successful and developed Montenegro to the satisfaction of all its citizens. That Montenegro is eternal," concluded Raičević.

Nimanbegu: Albanians are proud of the contribution made to the historic decision

The President of the Force, Genci Nimanbegu, said that the Albanians in Montenegro are "proud of the contribution made to the historic decision - the independence of Montenegro".

"The support given to the independence of Montenegro shows the unwavering determination of Albanians to build a society of equal opportunities and chances together with other peoples.

"The referendum on the independence of Montenegro was an indicator of the stabilization of the Balkan region and we are convinced that an independent and democratic Montenegro is a country where we want to exercise individual and collective rights.

"Despite the achievements so far, there is still a lot to be done to achieve individual and collective equality, as well as economic and social development in the areas where Albanians live.

"On behalf of the New Democratic Force FORCA and my own name, I wish all the citizens of Montenegro a happy May 21 - Independence Day," Nimanbegu announced.

Koprivica: It is imperative to build the rule of law, a functional market economy and overcome divisions

Building the rule of law, a functional market economy and overcoming divisions is imperative for the new era of Montenegro, said Momo Koprivica, Deputy Prime Minister for the Political System, Justice and Anti-Corruption.

The Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Judiciary and Anti-corruption congratulated all citizens of Montenegro on the national holiday - Independence Day of Montenegro.

"Montenegro's age-old state-legal tradition and centuries of its struggle for freedom and justice strongly oblige our generation to do what is up to it and as much as it can to strengthen the foundations of the prosperous future of all citizens of our country," said Koprivica.

He points out that, "in a time that brings numerous challenges", it is imperative to build the rule of law, a functional market economy and overcome divisions, which "often consumed a lot of social energy throughout our past."

"This is the only way we will join the European Union as a full member, and thus enable the overall development of our country and society as a whole," concludes Koprivica.

Nenezić: Descendants of free people do not serve other people's interests

The President of the Bar Municipal Assembly Branislav Nenezić congratulated the citizens on Independence Day, saying that it was the day when "modern civil Montenegro was born, today a member of the NATO alliance and the first next member of the European Union."

"Although Montenegro is not a superpower in terms of the number of inhabitants and the size of the territory, 18 years ago Montenegro passed the demanding test of the democratic maturity of a society, and showed how through cooperation with partners from Europe and the whole world, a democratic process can be implemented in which the ultimate winners will be preservation of peace and stability in Montenegro and the region.

"It was a strong test of Montenegrin civic consciousness, and all our citizens, regardless of which option they voted for that day, sent a message to the whole world and to their Balkan neighbors that civil Montenegro lives, that it can be a positive example of the war-torn Balkans, that possible to stand side by side with civilized countries and inherit the practices of the most developed democratic countries in the world.

"Today, we are witnessing that this very civic being of Montenegro is trying to be destroyed through the perfidious games of parties that advocate for European integration only on paper, while behind-the-scenes actions are trying to portray Montenegro as an unreliable partner in order to return us to their natural environment of the 1990s.

"Nevertheless, our civic spirit and the spirit of libertarian Montenegro will send them a clear message that this will not pass, that here live the descendants of free people who do not serve other people's interests as slaves and do not kiss chains but look to the future in which civil, multi-ethnic and brave Black Gora wins.

"And our Bar, which has withstood the onslaughts of various self-proclaimed liberators, continues to clearly illuminate that path and show us the direction we should go in order to preserve our social and political community as advanced, based on equality, free and proud. May Montenegro be eternal" , announced Nenezić.

Ibrahimović: With the restoration of independence, they laid the foundation for modern Montenegro

Bosniak Party leader Ervin Ibrahimović congratulated the citizens of Montenegro in the country and the diaspora on Independence Day, one of the most significant dates in the recent history of Montenegro.

"... convinced that with the restoration of Montenegro's independence on May 21, 2006, we laid the foundations of modern Montenegro, on which we are today building a democratic, civil, Euro-Atlantic and European state, as a society of equal opportunities for all".

He said that as a Bosniak and the president of Bosnia and Herzegovina, he is proud of the contribution of the Bosniak people and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the diaspora in the restoration of the independence of Montenegro and all important political decisions after the restoration of independence, due to which today we are a member of the NATO alliance and a country that has a historic chance to very quickly becomes the first next member of the EU.

"Considering that civil rights and freedoms, multiculturalism, civil society, democracy, the rule of law, social justice and the right to a dignified life are the essence of European values ​​and what, in addition to the restoration of independence, we voted for on May 21, 2006, I use this opportunity to invite all citizens of Montenegro to contribute to our prosperous, European future in the spirit of unity and gathering around these values, regardless of everyday challenges, political and other differences I congratulate Montenegro and the diaspora on May 21, believing that every next year, Montenegro will be an even better place for the lives of all its citizens," Ibrahimovic's congratulatory message reads.

Belan: To celebrate the day when we showed the world that the old country has knowledge and wisdom

I wish you to use the holidays to rest from the numerous problems that our society is facing and to celebrate in a good mood the historic day when we showed the world that the old country in the Balkans has the knowledge and wisdom to restore its independence in a democratic and civilized manner, said the president of Liberalna party Vatroslav Belan.

"Let's be proud of our homeland Montenegro, of all its citizens, our multiculturalism, multi-ethnicity, history, culture, symbols, peculiarities and differences, of our anti-fascist heritage. Let's highlight all our good sides and successes, which are many, and flaws and stubborn misconceptions which persistently hinder us from reaching the developed democratic world even faster, raise our awareness and confront them more courageously and decisively and finally overcome them," he said in the announcement.

Belan specified that Independence Day should be an incentive, "to return the state to the citizens of Montenegro and to jointly achieve our priority goal – membership in the European Union. We must not allow ourselves to have tutors again, to play for other people's interests and to be anyone's change, and we citizens pay the price of those mistakes for generations."

Popović: This moment is a symbol of our courage and determination

Back in 1878, at the Berlin Congress, Montenegro fought for its independence, confirming its status among European nations. This moment in our history is a symbol of our courage and determination to preserve our identity and sovereignty, said the Vice President of the Parliament of Montenegro Zdenka Popović.

"It is with great pleasure and pride that I address you on the occasion of May 21, the Independence Day of Montenegro. On this day, we remember our history, culture and tradition, and celebrate the sovereignty of our beloved homeland," Popović said in a statement.

According to her, this historical moment, "and our constant struggle for freedom and independence oblige us to continue our path towards full membership in the European Union."

"As a nation that shares European values, we are committed to strengthening democracy, the rule of law and economic progress. Therefore, membership in the European Union is our natural goal and an important step towards ensuring lasting peace and prosperity for all our citizens. Today we are proud of the progress we have made achieved as a free and independent country, and before us is a bright European future that we will build together, on the foundations of freedom, justice and solidarity," she concluded.

Mustafić: The plebiscite support confirmed our permanent commitment

We are proud of the contribution of the Bosniak people, in the country and in the diaspora, in the historic decision - the reaffirmation of the statehood of Montenegro. The plebiscite support confirmed our permanent determination to, together with others, build a prosperous society, said the president of the Bosniak Council in Montenegro, Suljo Mustafić.

He sent a congratulatory message to all citizens of Montenegro, in the country and in the diaspora, on the occasion of May 21 - Independence Day.

"With the restoration of the independence of Montenegro on May 21, 2006, the foundations of a modern, multi-ethnic and multicultural Montenegro were laid and the prerequisites for its democratic development and Euro-Atlantic future were created. The members of the Bosniak nation were and remain convinced that it is independent and democratic "Montenegro has a realistic framework in which they want to exercise civil and collective rights," he added.

Mustafić emphasized that they advocate for social integration, "less numerous peoples and greater presence in the decision-making places, as a guarantor of exercising rights, building and strengthening institutions and social cohesion in our Montenegro."

"We are aware that only a society with equal opportunities can be democratic and progressive and that only such a Montenegro can be a stable country with a certain European future," he concluded.

Deković: To work together on further progress

"On the occasion of the Independence Day of Montenegro, which we celebrate in the atmosphere of commemorating the coming of age since the restoration of the independence of our common homeland - Montenegro, the Croatian National Council of Montenegro sends its hearty congratulations to all the citizens of Montenegro, with the wish to work together for further progress and affirmation in the future of our Montenegro and its values, for the benefit of all citizens," said President Zvonimir Deković.