Today, in Tivat, Ervin Ibrahimović, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro, and Gordan Grlić Radman, the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, finalized the agreement regarding the transfer of management rights for the Josip Marković cultural centre in Donja Lastva. This agreement reaffirms both nations’ dedication to enhancing good neighbourly relations, fostering mutual trust, and safeguarding the identities of minority populations.

With the signing of this Agreement, we reinforce our commitment to nurturing trustworthy and collaborative relations with our neighbours and allies. Croatia is a friendly neighbour, and the Croatian community in Montenegro is an integral part of our social tapestry, stated Minister Ibrahimović.

He highlighted that Montenegro values civic coexistence and multiethnic harmony as significant achievements, emphasizing that protecting the rights and identities of minority communities remains a strategic priority for any responsible policy.

I am pleased that the Josip Marković cultural centre will become a venue for meetings, dialogue, and collaboration – a representation of shared European values and yet another bridge of friendship between Montenegro and Croatia, concluded Ibrahimović.

Minister Grlić Radman expressed his contentment that this Centre will support the cultural, educational, and social activities of the Croatian minority in Montenegro. He acknowledged the Government of Montenegro and the Foreign Minister for their dedication to dialogue, cooperation, and the promotion of shared European values.

This act symbolically signifies trust and friendship between Croatia and Montenegro, while also serving as a concrete contribution to preserving the identity, language, and culture of the Croatian minority, stressed Grlić Radman.

He further mentioned that such tangible actions are vital to Montenegro’s European path and facilitate the resolution of all pending issues, reaffirming Croatia’s unwavering support for Montenegro’s EU integration.

We will continue to advocate for Montenegro’s accession to the EU and provide support just as we did during NATO accession, remarked Grlić Radman.

The two foreign ministers gathered in Tivat to address current bilateral and regional matters, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining open dialogue and cooperation to reach mutually agreeable solutions for outstanding challenges.