The Ministry of Diaspora today organized a ceremony at Villa Gorica in Podgorica to award prominent members and organizations of the diaspora-emigrants, who, as announced, have made an exceptional contribution to the preservation of national identity, strengthening cultural, scientific and humanitarian ties with the homeland, improving economic cooperation, as well as to the international affirmation of Montenegro.
Marinko Ćulafić received the award for preserving the state identity and belonging to Montenegro, Miloš Karadaglić was awarded for his contribution to the field of culture, and Vasilije Mijović for his contribution to the field of science. Miodrag Kostić was posthumously awarded for his contribution to improving the economic partnership with Montenegro, the humanitarian organization "Bratska ruka" received the award for charity, and Refik Šabanadžović for his contribution to the field of sports.
In addition to the annual awards, the Minister of Diaspora Mirsad Azemović made a decision to award special recognitions from the Ministry, "as a sign of respect for the exceptional work and contribution of the diaspora" - Prof. Dr. Čedomir Čupić was awarded a charter for exceptional contribution to the preservation and nurturing of national, cultural and state identity in Serbia, Vladislav Popović was awarded a plaque for exceptional contribution in the field of improving economic partnership with Montenegro, and Osman Destanović was awarded a plaque for exceptional contribution in the field of protecting the rights and position of diaspora-emigrants.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking state officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, award winners, representatives of the diaspora, as well as prominent figures from the fields of science, culture, economy and the civil sector. The awards were presented by the Minister of Diaspora Mirsad Azemović and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Ervin Ibrahimović.
Azemović emphasized that "the diaspora represents the great professional, intellectual and economic potential of our country, a solid support and strength for our future development and prosperity," the Ministry of Diaspora announced.
"Although we have always been aware of the capital we have in our diaspora - I would say that the most important is the human one. The role played by the diaspora is crucial, not only in economic terms, but also as a bridge of knowledge, experience, ideas and values that it transfers from the world to its homeland on a daily basis. Our people in the diaspora were and remain the best promoters and ambassadors of their home country. We are grateful to them for the enormous effort they invest in preserving our language, culture, tradition and identity of emigrants of all generations," said Azemović.
He pointed out that for the first time, the Government has institutionally recognized the enormous importance of our diaspora by establishing the Ministry of Diaspora and emphasized that this department is not just the result of a political decision, but an expression of the sincere belief that the diaspora is an inseparable part of our society.
"Esteemed representatives of the diaspora, you do not live in Montenegro, but Montenegro lives in you - through every success you have made, through every contribution to the community, through every word spoken with love for the homeland. This ceremony is not only an opportunity to present you with awards and recognitions, but also to express our deep gratitude and admiration, because even when you are far from Montenegro, you make us proud with your professional effort, work and dedication. These awards are also a need to preserve the awareness of our people and the successes they have achieved and are achieving beyond the borders of Montenegro."
Ibrahimović emphasized that the diaspora is a key part of the overall social being of Montenegro, and that the state has an obligation to nurture these ties and strengthen cooperation.
"We thank you for being, although far away, always close to Montenegro - with your heart, deeds and the values you inherit. Your devotion, dedication and unwavering will to contribute to the development of our country make you a pillar of our identity in the world. Your work, your humanity, knowledge and vision represent the invaluable capital of Montenegro. Therefore, we owe you not only gratitude, but also the obligation to build a stronger, fairer and more internationally recognized Montenegro together," said Ibrahimović.
The Ministry of Diaspora announced that with this event, it continues the practice of institutionally recognizing the long-standing engagement of individuals and associations from the diaspora, who affirm the values of togetherness, connection and commitment to the development of Montenegro in the international context, and that it confirms its commitment to strengthening ties with the diaspora and encouraging its active participation in the development of Montenegro.
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