Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović delivered a speech at a ceremonial reception in Brussels commemorating Montenegro’s Statehood Day. The event was co-hosted by the Embassy of Montenegro in Belgium, the Mission to the European Union, and the Permanent Mission to NATO. Many distinguished guests from political, diplomatic, and cultural fields attended, including NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Šekerinska.

In his address, Ibrahimović highlighted that Montenegro, recognized internationally as the 27th independent state at the Congress of Berlin and seeking to become the 28th EU member, upholds a legacy of freedom embedded in its statehood. He noted that today’s achievements are forged through reform, dialogue, and a steadfast commitment to European values.

This evening, we celebrate Montenegro’s Statehood Day in the heart of Europe—Brussels—alongside our allies, partners, and friends, Ibrahimović said. He emphasized that the occasion honors Montenegro’s historical milestones and reaffirms a collective European future.

He also took the chance to underscore recent advancements in Montenegro’s EU integration process, including the provisional closure of Chapter 5—Public Procurement—and the achievement of benchmarks in critical rule of law chapters.

Almost 90% of our citizens endorse EU membership, and we are dedicated to reaching that objective by the end of 2028. ‘28 by 28’ is not merely a slogan—it’s a commitment, Ibrahimović asserted.

He reaffirmed that Montenegro approaches Brussels as a historic European nation with a clear pro-Western stance. By fully aligning with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, we have stood with Europe on major matters, including sanctions against the aggression in Ukraine, he remarked.

The ceremony also celebrated the official inauguration of the new premises for the Embassy of Montenegro in Belgium. While the address may be new, the friendship is enduring—and both are designed to last, Ibrahimović noted, stressing that this milestone will further enhance Montenegro’s representation before the EU, in line with the nation’s strategic goals.

A special emphasis was placed on the significance of Montenegro’s diaspora. They serve as Montenegro’s extended hand and vital bridge to Europe and beyond, DPM Ibrahimović stated, expressing gratitude to compatriots in Belgium and Luxembourg for their contributions to the country’s international presence and recognition.

Guided by the legacy of July 13 and supported by our partners, Montenegro can confidently pursue its primary foreign policy goal—becoming a full member of the EU family, Ibrahimović concluded.