The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović hosted a reception today in Cetinje to celebrate Montenegrin Diplomacy Day, established last year to honor the founding of the Office for Foreign Affairs of the Principality of Montenegro on May 6, 1874.

Ibrahimović highlighted the significance of upholding the lasting values of diplomacy, Montenegro’s proud history, and its enduring statehood, which has evolved from Duklja, through Zeta and the Principality of Montenegro, to the modern state we see today. He explained that this day also pays tribute to monumental figures in Montenegrin diplomatic history: Stanko Radonjić, Gavro Vuković, Ante Gvozdenović, Evgenije Popović, Pero Šoć, Dušan Gregović, Lazar Tomanović, Mitar Bakić, Petar Plamenac, among others.

These individuals were instrumental in drafting the first diplomatic notes and establishing the fundamentals of our diplomacy, thereby enhancing Montenegro’s international standing, said Ibrahimović. He reflected on the remarkable contributions of Montenegrin diplomats during the Yugoslav era and their pivotal role in the restoration of independence in 2006.

Ibrahimović pointed out that the country’s multiethnic and multireligious harmony are essential values that influence contemporary foreign policy. He indicated that mutual respect and appreciation form the foundation of Montenegro’s solid relationships with like-minded nations and are integral to our diplomatic approach.

In discussing current foreign policy priorities, he reiterated Montenegro’s commitment to bolstering bilateral relations, engaging actively in multilateral organizations, and emphasized that achieving EU membership by 2028 remains the nation’s primary strategic objective. He also noted that NATO membership stands as the most significant accomplishment in the country’s modern diplomatic history. As a reliable and stable ally, we are fully dedicated to advancing our national interests and contributing meaningfully to all key Alliance policies, he remarked.

Ibrahimović further addressed the vital role of the Montenegrin diaspora and the ongoing initiatives to safeguard the rights and interests of Montenegrin citizens abroad. He announced the imminent opening of new diplomatic missions in Denmark, Switzerland, and a diplomatic office in Luxembourg, aiming to broaden our diplomatic presence and strengthen bilateral relations with these nations.

Earlier today, Ibrahimović laid a wreath at the tomb of Stanko Radonjić in Njeguši, a distinguished Montenegrin diplomat and the first head of the Office for Foreign Affairs of the Principality of Montenegro (1874), who also held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1879 to 1889.

The reception at the Government House in Cetinje was graced by members of the diplomatic corps, government ministers, state officials, former foreign ministers and ambassadors, alongside Prince Nikola Petrović.

As part of the ceremony, an exhibition of archival materials was showcased, reflecting the rich history and evolution of Montenegrin diplomacy, organized in collaboration with the National Museum and the State Archives of Montenegro. The cultural program included a performance by renowned Montenegrin soprano Sara Vujošević-Jovanović.