The Ministry of European Affairs, in collaboration with the Municipality of Petnjica, hosted the European Tour – Games without Borders in Petnjica today.

According to the Ministry of European Affairs, the European Tour marks the celebration of Europe Day and is backed by the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Montenegro.

This celebration aims to foster knowledge, teamwork, and active youth engagement in social processes, promoting values such as solidarity, tolerance, and inclusion, which are the bedrock of the EU.

“Despite the calendar indicating May, Petnjica experienced an unexpected snowfall, yet even this unusual weather could not dampen the enthusiasm and energy during another edition of the European Tour,” stated the Ministry of European Affairs.

At the opening of the games, the Vice President of the Municipality of Petnjica, Selvudin Šabotić, emphasized the municipality’s strong commitment to European integration.

“The fact that Petnjica embodies Europe and Europe embodies Petnjica is underscored by the hosting of the European Tour in our municipality for the second time, and we are excited to contribute to the expedited journey towards EU membership,” said Šabotić.

The Minister of Regional Investment Development and Cooperation with Non-Governmental Organizations, Ernad Suljević, remarked that events like the “European Tour – Games without Borders” bridge the local and European spheres.

Such events are crucial, as they enable young individuals to cultivate sports skills, a competitive spirit, healthy rivalry, trust, and friendships.

“Today, as we face challenges in balanced development, events like this are exceptionally significant and showcase that municipalities in northern Montenegro possess the same potential for development and improved living standards,” Suljević noted.

He further stated that Petnjica, along with numerous municipalities in northern Montenegro, is rich in potential.

“Events like this, which engage children, youth, and the community, not only provide opportunities for entertainment and sports competition but also deepen human connections and enhance regional cooperation,” Suljević highlighted.

On behalf of the Ministry of Diaspora, Denis Martinović, the Acting Director General of the Directorate for Cooperation with Diaspora, addressed the audience, emphasizing that municipalities in Montenegro, with EU support, are increasingly participating in local development programs, green transition, digitalization, sustainable resource management, and institutional capacity building.

According to Martinović, the celebration of Europe Day in Petnjica carries profound significance.

“It reaffirms that the European ideals and principles are not only confined to metropolises and administrative centers; they are universal and equally relevant in every community, regardless of size, geographical location, or population,” he stated.

He further explained that it signifies local communities as vital partners in the European integration process.

Petnjica athlete and member of the local football club, Omer Agović, shared insights about the opportunities that EU member states offer to athletes, expressing hope that young Montenegrin athletes will also access such opportunities.

“We are striving to elevate our sport to the standards seen in Europe, paving a quicker path to Europe while reaping numerous benefits and achieving better sporting success,” Agović remarked.

As per the statement, representatives from various ministries and the municipality of Petnjica also visited the “EU and the Dot” information center, a resource where citizens can easily acquire information about the EU and the prospects offered by European integration.

It was noted that the highlight of the day was the “Games without Borders” – an educational and sports competition where students from the elementary schools “Mahmut Adrović,” “Trpezi,” “25. maj,” “Tucanje,” and “Savin Bor” showcased their team spirit, knowledge, and skills.

“With the support of their peers and smiles, contenders participated in games that blended physical activities with questions about Europe, promoting learning through fun, social interaction, and healthy competition. The most skilled team, from Mahmut Adrović Elementary School, was awarded,” the statement elaborated.

The Ministry of European Affairs noted that, after traveling through five municipalities, the “European Tour – Games Without Borders” is set to conclude its journey this year in Bar.

“The sun, the sea, and a finale with the youthful inhabitants of Bar will symbolize the end of this playful European journey, demonstrating that the values of Europe flourish where children learn to play together,” the statement concluded.

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