Azemović: Diaspora is a pillar of development and future of Montenegro

The knowledge, experience and resources that people from the diaspora bring can accelerate development and bring Montenegro closer to European standards faster than ever, assessed Minister of Diaspora Mirsad Azemović.

Speaking at a panel as part of the final Business Forum of this year's Diaspora Days, which was held on Friday at the Polim Museum in Berane, he said that the event showed that the Montenegrin diaspora is not just a bridge to the world, but a strong pillar of our future.

"The knowledge, experience and resources that our people bring from abroad can accelerate development and bring us closer to European standards faster than ever," said Azemović, according to a statement from the Ministry of Diaspora.

The President of the Municipality of Berane, Đole Lutovac, emphasized that it was significant that the finale of the event was held in Berane.

"We are proud to have hosted an event that brings together our diaspora, institutions and economy. Berane is open to cooperation and ready to be the center of initiatives that bring development and progress to the entire north of Montenegro," said Lutovac.

The forum, organized by the Ministry of Diaspora and the Municipality of Berane, brought together high-ranking representatives of state institutions, the economy, the civil sector, as well as successful members of the Montenegrin diaspora from around the world.

The Ministry said that during the forum, possibilities for stronger inclusion of the diaspora in the economic development and European integration of Montenegro were discussed, through specific models of cooperation and joint projects.

Diaspora Days entitled "Diaspora and European Integration - Partnership for the Future" were held in Rožaje, Berane, Plav, Gusinje, Petnjica and Ulcinj, through a series of business forums, cultural programs and meetings with expatriates.

As stated by the Ministry, the Diaspora Days ended with the message that the diaspora is an inseparable part of the identity and development perspective of Montenegro.

"As a key partner in building a modern, European and prosperous state, with a clear willingness of the state and local communities to continue developing strong partnerships with emigrants, with the aim of strengthening the economy and accelerating Montenegro's European path," the statement said.