Political parties, officials and organizations sent congratulations on July 13, the Statehood Day of Montenegro.
Montenegro celebrates Statehood Day, in memory of July 13, 1878, when it was recognized as an independent state at the Berlin Congress, and the same date in 1941, when the Montenegrin people began their uprising against fascism.
Fejzić: A day that symbolizes centuries-old aspirations on the challenging path of freedom and sovereignty
The Head of the Islamic Community in Montenegro, Rifat Fejzić, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of the Statehood Day of Montenegro via the social network Iks.
"Dear citizens, I sincerely congratulate you on July 13th - Statehood Day. Today we proudly celebrate a day that symbolizes centuries-old aspirations on the challenging path of freedom and sovereignty. Montenegro resisted great-power projects and became independent, part of NATO, and hopefully soon part of the European Union," he said.
In his announcement, the reis emphasized the importance of preserving the statehood, freedom and European path of Montenegro, as well as the unity of all citizens regardless of religious or national affiliation.
Vraneš: History is not here to divide us, but to teach us how much stronger we were together
Today we proudly remember our glorious ancestors - from the Battle of Vučedol to all the liberation wars that shaped our dignity and freedom while fighting against the occupiers, said the President of the Municipality of Pljevlja, Dario Vraneš.
"May this day remind us of the glorious tradition of freedom, of the anti-fascist struggle, and of the unbreakable historical and spiritual ties between the Serbian and Montenegrin people. History is not here to divide us — but to teach us how much stronger we were together. Glory to the heroes!", he said.
Kovačević: The date that laid the foundation for the development of Montenegro
Malik Kovačević, a member of the Civic Initiative "21 May", congratulated all citizens on Statehood Day.
"This holiday represents a recognition and beacon of the Montenegrin struggle for independence, freedom and the ability to decide our own destiny. On this date in 1878, our country became one of the rare states of that era that was recognized as full and unquestionable statehood, and in 1941, our ancestors proved with weapons and showed the world that this acquired statehood and freedom could not be threatened by any occupier. Therefore, we must preserve the memory of this great date that laid the valuable foundations for the development of Montenegro as a European, anti-fascist and integralist community, which is ready to defend its identity from various attacks, especially revisionist ones. That Montenegro is eternal," he said.
Pejović: Let's build a society of justice, freedom and equal opportunities together
On behalf of the Parliament of Montenegro and on his own behalf, the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Boris Pejović sent his congratulations to the citizens of Montenegro on the occasion of July 13 - Statehood Day, a day when, as he said, we proudly mark two major milestones in our history: the international recognition of Montenegro as an independent state in 1878 and the beginning of the national uprising against fascism in 1941.
"This date symbolizes the struggle of the Montenegrin people for freedom, dignity and state sovereignty. It reminds us of the values that generations before us fought for, but also obliges us to preserve and advance these values in the spirit of democratic principles, togetherness and mutual respect.
"Let the National Day be an incentive for us to build a society of justice, freedom and equal opportunities for all citizens together, united in diversity. Happy July 13th," he concluded.
Rakočević: We are celebrating Statehood Day in an atmosphere of historical revisionism
Nikola Rakočević, Vice President of the Parliament of Montenegro and member of the DPS Presidency, said that July 13th is a day that serves as an eternal reminder that the freedom and statehood of Montenegro throughout history have been more valuable than life.
"Today, we celebrate Statehood Day in an atmosphere of historical revisionism and attempts by the authorities to impose their backward and defeated policies as a new social value.
"Just as Montenegrin society has historically had a response to fascism and anti-Montenegrin regimes, today we celebrate July 13th, aware that Montenegro again needs a response and resistance to the attempt to overthrow the state by a government that is based in another country and that openly serves other people's national interests," he said.
Camaj: Today we celebrate not only the victory over fascism, but the values that are woven into the foundations of our state
July 13, 1941, resonates in our collective consciousness - the day when the people of Montenegro raised one of the first nationwide uprisings against fascism in enslaved Europe, said Agron Camaj on behalf of the Human Resources Administration.
"On that day, Montenegro demonstrated its unwavering will for freedom and justice. The uprising was not just armed resistance, but the people's voice for dignity, freedom and a future. It was an uprising of the brave who chose an honorable fight over oppression.
Today we celebrate not only a historical date, synonymous with victory over fascism, but also the values that are woven into the foundations of our country – freedom, unity, and pride, which, once again, shone in full glory on May 21, 2006.
Montenegro is a member state of NATO, and is rapidly moving towards full membership in the EU. Let July 13th inspire us to preserve what previous generations have left us – a free, civil and defiant Montenegro, and it is our task to leave an even better, economically stronger, more stable and socially responsible state to future generations. Happy Statehood Day, Montenegro! May you be eternal," he said.
DPS Budva: By celebrating today's holiday, we inherit the achievements of anti-fascism
The DPS Budva municipal committee sent its warmest congratulations to all citizens on the occasion of July 13, the Statehood Day of Montenegro.
"July 1878, 1941 and XNUMX are dates inscribed in golden letters in Montenegrin history. That's when we gained our statehood and freedom. The legacy of our ancestors is also our guide for life today, as well as a beacon for the values we will inherit in the future."
The 13th of July is a symbol of anti-fascist and freedom-loving Montenegro, a permanent and indestructible beacon of our statehood. By celebrating today's holiday, we inherit the achievements of anti-fascism, thus strengthening the foundations of today's Europe.
"With deep respect for the deeds and sacrifices of our ancestors, who, without sparing their lives in very difficult conditions, set out on the right path, we can today live freely and build our future without hindrance. These victims constantly remind us that the fight is not over and that we have the task of protecting and improving our country," the Budva DPS announced.
They said that our task is to preserve and improve our country, setting an example for the younger generations to remain consistent and faithful to its libertarian, civic and anti-fascist tradition.
"Let us protect our country, build it and strengthen it, on libertarian and honorable foundations, as a civil society with equal opportunities for all our citizens. May Montenegro be eternal," the statement concludes.
Vujović: A date that is part of our identity
Minister of Culture and Media Tamara Vujović congratulated on July 13, Statehood Day.
"This date is part of our identity, a day when we collectively remember who we are, where we come from and why we believe in Montenegro as a free, civil and dignified state. In that year 1878, Montenegro became an internationally recognized state, and in that same year 1941, the citizens of Montenegro led the first mass uprising against fascism in then enslaved Europe, the day after the shameful meeting where Montenegro was put on a side it should not have been on. That is why the date July 13 is our foundation, not July 12 or any other - but also our vow, to never take freedom for granted, but to preserve, cherish and pass it on to generations to come, and to explain every day how important independence and freedom are."
Vujović emphasized that each generation has its own duty, and that "it is ours to translate truth, freedom and dignity into the culture of living, into education, art, literature, media and public speech, so that the spirit of July 13th lasts."
"As our ancestors did, it determined our direction through decades. As we do today, so our descendants will remember us. Let us be worthy of them. As we can remember with glory and pride. The Ministry of Culture and Media is dedicated to this culture of memory, through the preservation of intangible and tangible heritage, through support for contemporary creativity, through building a space for dialogue, critical thinking and social responsibility. If we do not remember, we cannot create. Today, when we celebrate, with pride, I invite everyone to pay tribute in thoughts, deeds, art or silence in front of monuments. I am in front of the timeless Bezmetković, the partisan Luka Tomanović. We remember and love who we are," said Vujović
Joković: We believe in Montenegro as a country of all its citizens
The President of the Socialist People's Party (SNP), Vladimir Joković, congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"On this day, we proudly recall two great historical moments – the international recognition of Montenegrin statehood at the Berlin Congress in 1878 and the famous national uprising against fascism in 1941. These two holy sites represent the pillars of the libertarian tradition of our country and are an eternal reminder that Montenegro belongs to its people – to those who created, defended and preserved it. The National Socialist Party of Montenegro continues to inherit these values: freedom, justice, solidarity and the fight for a dignified life for every person. We believe in Montenegro as a country of all its citizens, in which there is no place for divisions, revenge and blackmail, but in which the people are the ones who decide, and the state is the one who protects their interests. Our fight is a fight for a people's state, for economic security, for strong support for the domestic peasant, worker and pensioner. It is a fight for a state in which work is valued, family values are respected, faith, tradition and identity are nurtured, but at the same time it builds a society in which everyone is equal and free. On this day, we call for unity and reconciliation, because only together we can build a strong, respected and just Montenegro," said Joković.
Šćepanović: Our ancestors showed that no power in the world can subdue a people who know what they are defending
Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović congratulated on July 13, Statehood Day.
"This solemn day is not only an opportunity to remember the international recognition of Montenegro's independence in 1878 and the heroic fight against fascism and the national uprising in 1941, but also a reminder that our glorious past obliges us to be worthy of the sacrifices of our ancestors, to protect our country and to continue the fight for a just, clean and plague-free society. Our ancestors have shown that no force in the world can subdue a people who know what they are defending. Courage, honor, integrity and honesty are still the most deadly weapons against which every enemy is ultimately defeated. No one is and cannot be stronger than an honest and brave police officer who consistently applies the law in his hands. The Police Department will continue to fight even more strongly, unwaveringly and indiscriminately against all forms of crime and every individual who does not respect the law and undermines the values on which the foundations of our state rest. Our fight will continue to be uncompromising, so that we may be worthy of the pledge that our ancestors left us," he said. Scepanovic.
Koprivica: A magnificent historical date
Deputy Prime Minister Momo Koprivica congratulated on July 13th - Montenegro's Statehood Day.
"This magnificent historical date obliges us to historical memory and constant aspiration towards the universal values of freedom, justice and human dignity. It reminds us of July 13, 1878, when Montenegro was granted international recognition of statehood, after a centuries-old struggle for freedom, the creation and strengthening of a state, which did not stop even after that, due to the aspiration for the full realization of legitimate liberation and state goals, as well as July 13, 1941, when a nationwide uprising against fascism and the occupiers was raised, which, among many other greats, Jean-Paul Sartre speaks of as 'the most magnificent moment in European history of that era'. Recalling historical achievements, with a sense of pride, and believing in the potential of our state, as the home of all its citizens, this is an opportunity to emphasize the need for a responsible attitude, in all fields, both towards what is its moral, heroic and constitutional tradition, and towards what is the need for its prosperous future, "and these are undoubtedly the rule of law, unity while respecting diversity, dialogue, trust and accession to the European Union," said Koprivica.
Đurašković: A day when we proudly remember the glorious pages of our history
The Mayor of the Royal Capital of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, congratulated the citizens on Statehood Day.
"On this day, we proudly remember the glorious pages of our history: July 13, 1878, when Montenegro was internationally recognized at the Berlin Congress as an independent state, and July 13, 1941, when the people of Montenegro rose up against fascism, confirming their centuries-old aspiration for freedom, justice and dignity. These historical events have permanently embedded the values of freedom and resistance to any form of oppression into the foundations of our statehood. Cetinje, as a symbol of Montenegrin statehood and the spirit of freedom, remains a strong pillar of preserving the identity, culture and tradition of our country today. May this holiday be an incentive for us to build a modern, just and European society, in the spirit of solidarity, respect for diversity and the common good," Đurašković announced.
Ćulafić: Ecology and freedom go hand in hand
Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development Damjan Ćulafić congratulated on July 13, the Statehood Day of Montenegro.
"Our Montenegro is a jewel where mountains that touch the sky, rivers that gurgle through gorges, the sea that embraces our shores, and people who cherish culture, togetherness, and freedom meet. Today, more than ever, we need to cherish nature, to treat the land with respect, to plan development so that there is space for those who come after us. Ecology and freedom go hand in hand. There is no true independence if we do not have healthy land under our feet, clean water, air that can be breathed deeply, and landscapes that inspire us to be better people. North, south, east, and west, each region has its own story, its own landscape, its own contribution to the identity of Montenegro. And it is up to all of us to preserve, cherish, and develop this diversity, together, responsibly, and with love. In that spirit, may this holiday bring you pride, but also inspiration to build a fairer, greener, and more sustainable Montenegro together," said Ćulafić.
Novaković: The holiday should be an incentive for further social progress
President of I Vote Montenegro Radovan Novaković Cakan congratulated the citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"This date reminds us of two major turning points in our history - the international recognition of Montenegro's independence at the Berlin Congress in 1878 and the uprising of the Montenegrin people against fascism in 1941. These are symbols of the spirit of freedom, the unwavering struggle for sovereignty and the pursuit of peace, justice and dignity. In the spirit of anti-fascist tradition and freedom-loving values, may this holiday be an incentive for further social progress, mutual respect and strengthening of institutions that will contribute to a better and more just future for all citizens of Montenegro," said Novaković.
Ibrahimović: Let's preserve the seal of statehood left to us by our ancestors
President of the Bosniak Party, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"On this very day in 1941, majority Montenegro rose up to defeat the evil of fascism. History has confirmed that Montenegro has always been on the right side - the side of freedom, justice and human dignity. No one knows better than us how important it is to have our own state, our sovereignty and the right to a free life. That is why our task today is clear - to preserve the seal of statehood left to us by our ancestors, to pass it on to future generations as a symbol of unity, freedom and responsibility," said Ibrahimović.
As he added, "we have challenges ahead of us, but also opportunities to make this country even more just, more open and promising for all its citizens."
"Montenegro is today taking strong steps towards the European Union, and this is our strategic direction, from which we will not deviate. May the spirit of July 13 continue to guide us in building a modern, open and just Montenegro, which is a home for all its citizens, regardless of religion, nation or belief."
Boka Forum: Free Montenegro must respond strongly to those who want to revive the ghosts of the past
The Boka Forum congratulated the citizens on Statehood Day.
"On this day, we are full of stories about freedom, justice, the fight against fascist evil. And after that, things that should not be allowed are allowed without excuse. The entire libertarian Montenegro must strongly respond to all those who want the ghosts of the past to come back to life. The July 13th uprising and the brave fight of the partisans is a unique uprising and any putting it in the same basket with any other dates is unacceptable. As well as the fact that the July 2025th award, as it was this year in XNUMX, will ever be repeated. But that is not for a holiday story. That is for these other days - worries and misunderstandings. For today - Happy Statehood Day. The day of the magnificent victory over fascism," the Bokek Forum announced.
Jovanović: The Montenegrin people have resisted temptations and threats throughout the centuries
The President of the Municipality of Budva, Nikola Jovanović, congratulated the citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"Guided by an unwavering spirit, the Montenegrin people have resisted temptations and threats throughout the centuries, always committed to freedom, equality and justice, strengthening their position on the international stage as a reliable partner in protecting fundamental human rights, freedoms and dignity of every individual. May this holiday be a reminder of the power of togetherness and an incentive to persevere in building a just society, equal opportunities for all, in the spirit of freedom, respect and responsibility towards future generations," said Jovanović.
Šehović: Defend freedom and anti-fascism decisively and without compromise
I sincerely and proudly congratulate the citizens of Montenegro on Statehood Day. This date is not only a historical jubilee, but also an opportunity to remind ourselves who we are as a society and what kind of Montenegro we want to build, said Damir Šehović, president of the Social Democrats of Montenegro (SD) and one of the leaders of the European Alliance.
"July 1878th symbolizes the foundation of Montenegro's freedom-loving and state-building tradition. On that day in 1941, Montenegro became an internationally recognized state at the Berlin Congress. And in 13, on the same date, the people of Montenegro raised the first national liberation uprising in the then enslaved Europe. It was a resistance to fascism, occupation and betrayal, which once again put Montenegro on the right side of history. Modern, anti-fascist and civic Montenegro rests on these foundations. That is why July XNUMXth is not only a reminder of the glorious past, but also a lasting vow that we will always defend freedom, anti-fascism, justice and human dignity clearly, decisively and without compromise. It is no coincidence that the fascists always knew that Montenegro was a problem for them. Nor that they painted it as an exception in every attempt to enslave it. Justice was not calculated here. People died for it here. And every attempt to push neo-fascism through today's revision of the past, substitution of theses and political "The flirtation with dark symbols will end like every previous one - on the defeated side of history," said Đehović.
He added that even today we are witnessing attempts to challenge and revise state traditions.
"Part of the current government is openly and systematically working to suppress the truth about the uprising, diminish the significance of the anti-fascist struggle, relativize criminal ideologies, and rehabilitate the Chetnik movement. Although these attempts are historically and morally untenable, they are politically extremely dangerous, because they are directed against the very foundations of Montenegrin statehood. That is why, today, the majority Montenegro is sending them a decisive and unreserved message: there is no place for fascism and chauvinism in a country that has always chosen freedom," he said.
Raičević congratulates on Statehood Day
The President of the Municipality of Bar, Dušan Raičević, congratulated the citizens on July 13th, Statehood Day.
"In the face of the historical magnitude of a date such as July 13th and everything it means for Montenegro and its citizens, the challenge is to find words that would adequately express respect. It is difficult to find new messages for a date that is indelibly woven into modern Montenegrin history, into every inch of this country, into each of our people. But this very fact speaks to how unshakable the value foundation of our society is, the pillar on which our most valuable ideas rest - freedom, equality and statesmanship. This date best speaks to how much our country, despite many difficulties, has shown throughout the centuries that it knows how to preserve what is most important, which is the right to decide on its own destiny and the right to freedom," said Raičević.
Bar, as a city of open doors recognized as a meeting place of diversity and togetherness, he added, best demonstrates how much the values of July 13th are alive and present in everyday life.
"In our city, we cherish togetherness, build bridges between people and proudly preserve the achievements of the glorious past, aware that only in this way can we take a confident step towards the future. May this 13th of July remind us that courage, solidarity and belief in freedom are the forces that have built Montenegro throughout the centuries, may it keep us united around the common goal of living free and united, with deep respect for the sacrifice of those who made this possible with their lives," said Raičević.
SEP: We stand firm in defense of the achievements of July 13th, which are under strong attack today
The European Progress Party congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"Today, with pride and deep respect, we celebrate July 13th - the Day of Statehood of Montenegro, a symbol of the unwavering struggle for freedom, statehood and dignity. On this date, Montenegro was internationally recognized as an independent state in 1878, at the Berlin Congress. Decades later, on the same day in 1941, our people were the first in enslaved Europe to rise up against fascism - bravely, en masse and without calculation. This is a history we are proud of, the foundation of identity and the spirit of freedom that makes Montenegro special. The Party of European Progress believes that today's generations have an obligation to worthily celebrate and preserve this historical vertical of freedom - through the building of democratic institutions, the rule of law, economic development and social solidarity. We believe in a Montenegro in which the anti-fascist heritage is respected, in which all citizens are equal, and the state is strong, just and European," the SEP announced.
They add that in times of challenge, "we renew our vow of freedom, equality and independence - values for which many before us have made the greatest sacrifices."
"We stand firmly in defense of the achievements of July 13th, which are today strongly attacked even by political actors in power."
Canović: It is up to us to preserve this heritage
On the occasion of July 13, the Statehood Day of Montenegro, the Mayor of the Municipality of Plav, Nihad Canović, sent a congratulatory message to the citizens.
"Statehood Day is not just a memory, it is a call for freedom, dignity and anti-fascism to remain the foundation of our future. On July 13, we proudly pay tribute to those who fought for a Montenegro that does not submit, but decides. It is up to us to preserve this heritage - with wisdom, responsibility and dedicated work," said Canović.
He wished citizens to spend this holiday with dignity, while reminding them of the values that have led Montenegro throughout history on the path of freedom and self-awareness.
Vujović: The fight against Montenegro is perhaps most of all a fight against July 13th - that's why they've already lost that fight
SDP President and one of the leaders of the European Alliance, Ivan Vujović, asked for a congratulatory message on the occasion of July 13th - Montenegro's Statehood Day.
"A day that sublimates Montenegrin eternity, freedom and our millennial existence. A date that brought us international recognition in the 19th century and, in the 20th century, with an unprecedented uprising in enslaved Europe, opened the door to the return of statehood, forcibly seized in the shameful 1918," said Vujović.
The fight against Montenegro, according to him, is perhaps most of all a fight against July 13th.
"And that's exactly why they've already lost that fight. Happy Statehood Day and Uprising Day," Vujović said.
Borovinić Bojović: A lasting symbol of insubordination, freedom and anti-fascism
The President of the Capital City Assembly, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, congratulated on July 13, Statehood Day.
"This date is special in its double significance - because back in 1878, Montenegro was recognized as an independent and sovereign state at the Berlin Congress, and then, in 1941, the people of Montenegro raised a famous uprising against the occupying yoke in World War II. Today, this day remains a lasting symbol of insubordination, freedom and anti-fascism. This great holiday testifies to the unwavering determination of the people to preserve freedom and dignity. Remembering the courage of our ancestors, who, guided by the ideal of freedom and faith in justice, made the greatest sacrifices so that we could live in peace and dignity today, we express our gratitude and obligation to preserve the flame of freedom that they lit," said Borovinić Bojović.
Respect for our own heritage, she added, "is confirmed by the fact that today we are boldly leading Montenegro towards the community of European nations, whose values we have always belonged to and to which we aspire through the process of European integration."
"May the memory of our glorious ancestors be a permanent reminder that we are obliged to preserve peace and unity and face the challenges of the times together," said Borovinić Bojović.
Kordić: A day when we celebrate the unity and freedom-loving spirit of our people
Minister of Tourism Simonida Kordić congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"July 13th, which represents an important page in the history of Montenegro, is also a day when we celebrate the unity and freedom-loving spirit of our people. This date reminds us of the courage and determination of our ancestors who together showed sublime humanity and heroism when it was most needed, regardless of differences. This holiday is not only a memory of the past, but also an incentive to preserve the truth and proudly build the future of our country. May the symbolism of July 13th inspire us to continue to develop our country together and to promote its natural beauty and cultural heritage, especially through tourism, which is one of the pillars of our prosperity," said Kordić.
Kadić: Let us all continue to work for the progress and prosperity of our common home
The Director of the Health Insurance Fund, Vuk Kadić, congratulated the citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"Today we celebrate two great events: July 13, 1878, when Montenegro received international recognition at the Berlin Congress, and July 13, 1941, when the July 1878 Uprising, the first mass uprising in enslaved Europe, was raised. In XNUMX, Montenegro, after turbulent historical events, finally entered the circle of free and respected states of Europe at that time. Several decades later, our patriots, by raising the uprising, showed that they would never submit to any conqueror, no matter how strong and superior. Proud of their bravery, we must always keep in mind that the universal values they stood for are a historical vertical that we must especially appreciate. In that name, let us all continue to work for the progress and prosperity of our common home, aware that we are obliged to ensure a better future for generations to come," said Kadić.
Dukaj: Only together can we ensure a better future for generations to come
Minister of Public Administration Maraš Dukaj congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"This holiday is a reminder of the strength of unity, courage and the aspiration for freedom that generations before us have woven into the foundations of modern Montenegro. Guided by these values - freedom, justice, peace and mutual respect, we must continue to build a modern, inclusive and just society together, in which the dignity of every human being is respected. Today, more than ever, we need solidarity, mutual trust and a shared vision of progress. Only together can we ensure a better future for all generations to come - a future based on knowledge, responsibility and European values. May July 13 further unite us in our commitment to a strong, stable and prosperous Montenegro, home to all its citizens," said Dukaj.
Odžić: Let this date, in these difficult and challenging times, be our guiding star and a signpost for the future
The President of the Budva Municipal Assembly, Petar Odžić, congratulated the citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"July 13th, one of the brightest dates in Montenegrin history, a date that unites, the date of Montenegro's defiance and perseverance. This date best depicts the libertarian and heroic spirit of our people, and summarizes everything that is crucial, everything that is essential into one thread - anti-fascism. Let this date, in these difficult and challenging times, of the return of fascist ideas, be our guiding star and a signpost for the future. Through the memory of these glorious dates in Montenegrin history, let us bequeath to the generations ahead the idea of freedom and anti-fascism," said Odžić.
Nurković: Freedom is not given, it is earned
Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Mirsad Nurković congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"The roots of Montenegrin freedom and statehood are deep, firm and shaped through centuries of struggle for freedom, dignity and the right to one's own path. Ever since the international recognition of independence at the Berlin Congress in 1878, until July 13, 1941, the first organized uprising in enslaved Europe, Montenegro has witnessed the resilience of its people and the strength of the idea of freedom. Statehood Day is not just a reminder of the past, it is an obligation to treat with respect what was gained through sacrifice, but also a responsibility to continue to build a society in which man is the primacy. Montenegro today, as then, must be a state that cherishes peace, justice, coexistence and respect for diversity, because it is precisely in these values that its true strength lies," said Nurković.
He added that the message of July 13th is clear and timeless.
"Freedom is not given, it is earned. And preserving that freedom begins with each individual's attitude towards their country, its institutions and its values. In the spirit of that great heritage, let Statehood Day be a reminder to us that Montenegro is not just a space, but an idea and a vow to live in peace, to respect others and to never forget what we have been through so that we can look to the future today," said Nurković.
Perić: On the foundations of July 13th, we are building a society of freedom, solidarity and dignity
Marking July 13, we remember one of the greatest dates in our history — the day when Montenegro, in two centuries, confirmed its independence and rose up against the fascist occupation, strengthening the age-old aspiration for freedom. In a time of great external and internal challenges, we can and must build on this foundation the values of solidarity, justice and mutual respect, said the president of the Preokret movement, Srđan Perić.
"It is our responsibility to translate the spirit of freedom into everyday action for a more just society - a society in which no one is forgotten, in which the public interest is placed before narrow-party and personal accounts, and in which the state must be strengthened by justice, efficiency and sovereign decision-making in the interests of its citizens. In this name, I congratulate all citizens of Montenegro on Statehood Day, with the wish that we together build a society of freedom, solidarity and dignity for all," said Perić.
Đukanović: In anti-fascism lies our security, strength and hope for the longevity of Montenegro
Former President of Montenegro Milo Đukanović congratulated citizens on their Statehood Day, July 13th.
"Happy July 13th - Statehood Day to all who respect and are proud of the tradition of freedom and national dignity of our country. The historical achievements of this great date throughout the centuries illuminate the path of progress and development of Montenegro and represent a secure framework for building a modern democratic Montenegrin society with a certain European perspective. In anti-fascism lies our security, our strength and our hope for the longevity of Montenegro. And a secure barrier against attempts to revise history that we are witnessing these days. May Montenegro be eternal," Đukanović wrote on his account on the X network.
Jokić: Celebrating this day, we remember the courage of our ancestors who fought for freedom
The President of the Municipality of Kotor, Vladimir Jokić, celebrated July 13, Statehood Day.
"This significant date is a reminder of two major events in our history - the international recognition of Montenegro in 1878 and the beginning of the national uprising against fascism in 1941. By celebrating this day, we remember the courage of our ancestors who fought for freedom, but we also emphasize our responsibility in building a society based on justice and dignity," said Jokić.
Nenezić: Today, all the values that our ancestors established with their lives are threatened
The President of the Bar Municipal Assembly, Branislav Nenezić, congratulated the citizens on Statehood Day, July 13th.
"Today, when we celebrate July 13, we celebrate two of the most important dates in our history of freedom, two permanently binding dates in our glorious history, where both times, 147 years apart, the entire Europe looked at Montenegro with admiration and respect. The European and international public was amazed by the centuries-old struggle of our ancestors, both at the Berlin Congress on July 13, 1878, and on July 13, 1941, when the uprising of freedom-loving Montenegro lit a spark that gave hope to the then-subjugated Europe and the world that fascism could be defeated. The people of Montenegro rose up on July 13, 1941, as they had done for centuries before, without fear, not shrinking from the, until then, invincible war machinery of the dark fascist forces, and gave their best daughters and sons so that future generations would know that we cannot survive as servants and slaves, but only as free people, although that is always a difficult path," said Nenezić.
He added that we must "be honest with our generation and with future generations and say loudly that today all the values that our ancestors established with their lives are seriously endangered."
"The promoters of the anti-values of July 13th are sitting in official chairs and perfidiously working on the revisionism of our glorious history in order to ultimately reach their ultimate goal, which is the disappearance of a civil, free and proud Montenegro. The message of our ancestors is clear and it is that we can only survive as free people, the servility that dominates today, unfortunately, can only lead us to extinction and it is a huge responsibility on all of us to preserve what we have inherited in the coming period and give future generations a chance to live as citizens of an independent, modern and European Union-member Montenegro," said Nenezić.
Bogdanović: Every struggle and sacrifice is in vain if institutions are not clean and free from crime
President of the Democratic Party Caucus and Secretary General Boris Bogdanović congratulated citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"Today we proudly remember the most glorious days written and written in golden letters in history by our ancestors - July 13, 1878 and July 13, 1941. In that year 1878, at the Berlin Congress, the efforts of our ancestors were confirmed, but also the blood shed for the freedom of Montenegro, the independence of Montenegro, small in Europe, but honorable and heroic, was recognized. A little more than a century and a half after the Berlin congress, the citizens of Montenegro once again justified their status as heroes and without compromise, with only one goal, lit the first torch of freedom in Europe trampled by the occupier's boot, and raised the famous Thirteenth of July uprising. Now the path ahead is no less important than the last, the cleansing of the country from all those who are partners of the mafia and are not worthy of the victims of their ancestors, but also the full membership of Montenegro in the European family. Every struggle and every sacrifice was in vain "Montenegrin institutions are not clean and free from crime and other illicit influences," said Bogdanović.
Camaj: A date with deep historical meaning
Vice President of the Parliament of Montenegro Nikola Camaj congratulated all citizens on July 13, Statehood Day.
"July 13 is a date with deep historical significance for Montenegro and its citizens, starting from the Berlin Congress in 1878, together with 1941, as a symbol of the struggle and resistance of the people of Montenegro. Ahead of us is a new, essential path on which, together, we create a future of equal rights and opportunities for all citizens of Montenegro as equal members of the EU family. May this holiday remind us of the pledges of our ancestors for the benefit of us and our descendants. Happy Statehood Day to all citizens of Montenegro," said Camaj.
Popović: We always remember with pride the courage and determination of our ancestors who, guided by the idea of freedom, stood up against the occupiers...
The Vice President of the Parliament of Montenegro, on behalf of that institution and on her own behalf, congratulated all citizens of Montenegro on Statehood Day, July 13th.
"We always proudly remember the courage and determination of our ancestors who, guided by the idea of freedom, stood up against the occupiers and stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight for dignity, justice and independence. Their sacrifice and strength of spirit remain the foundation on which we build today's Montenegro as a modern, democratic and European one," Popović stressed in a statement.
She added that this date not only reminds us of historical events, but also obliges us to work every day for the benefit of all citizens, in the spirit of freedom, mutual respect and togetherness.
"Let July 13th be a reminder that the most valuable values are those that unite and bring us together, love for the homeland, determination to preserve peace and the will to build a state in which there is room for everyone, without division. In that name, I once again congratulate all citizens on Statehood Day," Popović said.
Jakić: Our obligation is to carry the spirit of July 13th not only in memory, but also in actions
The President of the Municipality of Šavnik, Jugoslav Jakić, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of July 13, the Statehood Day of Montenegro.
"This date is a symbol of our struggle for freedom and the honor of those who have dared to stand on the front line of defense of freedom-loving ideals throughout the centuries, and reminds us that dignity and the right to decide on one's own destiny are never gained lightly, but are earned. Our obligation is to carry the spirit of July 13th not only in memory, but also in deeds. To build Montenegro to the measure of all its people, just, stable, modern and free. To cherish what connects us, and respectfully preserve the differences that enrich us. In this spirit, let Statehood Day be an opportunity to work even harder for the benefit of our Šavnik, our community and our homeland. To be worthy of those who dreamed of freedom and gave the most they had in its name," said Jakić.
Deković: The Croatian people in Montenegro will continue to work for the progress of Montenegro
The Croatian National Council of Montenegro sent congratulations to all citizens on the occasion of Statehood Day.
"The Croatian people in Montenegro will continue to work towards the progress of Montenegro as a multiethnic and multicultural environment and the well-being of all its inhabitants," said the president of the Croatian National Council of Montenegro, Zvonimir Deković.
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