With strong messages of unity and a shared European perspective, Nikšić marked Europe Day today, bringing together institutions, international partners, youth and citizens in a joint celebration of European values.
The central event was held at the Nikšić Theatre, attended by numerous guests and citizens.
As part of the institutional segment of the programme, remarks were delivered by the President of the Municipality of Nikšić, Marko Kovačević; the Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, Riccardo Serri; the Ambassador of Slovakia to Montenegro, Eva Ponomarenkova; and the Minister of Education, Science and Innovation, Prof. Dr Anđela Jakšić Stojanović.
President of the Municipality of Nikšić Marko Kovačević, speaking at the “Nikšić Celebrates Europe Day” event held at the Nikšić Theatre, congratulated citizens on the occasion and stated that Montenegro, although long distanced from European integration, is today confidently moving towards the place to which it belongs by its tradition, culture, and historical heritage.
“Europe Day and Victory over Fascism Day also carry a special personal symbolism for me, as I was born on May 9. I feel all of this as part of my identity and of the values Montenegro strives towards today. When Robert Schuman presented the plan that became the foundation of the European Union on May 9, 1950, Montenegro was part of Yugoslavia, where a communist, totalitarian regime ruled — one that had no understanding for the modern processes unfolding in Europe at the time. We know everything that happened in this region in the meantime, and now, as we enter the second quarter of this century, we are only at the threshold of that great structure — seeking to become part of it. According to the tradition and culture of our people, we should already have been built into its very foundations. Still, new generations have come within reach of that goal. If we cannot be the foundation of the European Union, we can be its roof and part of that great and important story, one that brings progress to our people and liberation from the totalitarian ideologies that burdened the entire world in the 20th century. That is why today we are determined to celebrate this day in precisely this way — with our children, with those who are the future of our country, wishing to provide them with better living conditions and ensure they do not go through what previous generations in Montenegro and the region experienced. We are moving forward at great speed, and by 2030, when Nikšić becomes a European Capital of Culture, Montenegro will already be part of the European Union,” Kovačević stated.
Deputy Head of the EU Delegation, Mr Serri, emphasized the European Union’s continuous support to Montenegro’s reform processes and its European path.
“Europe Day is about a simple but powerful idea: that countries and people are stronger when they work together. That idea has shaped Europe for over 70 years. And it still matters deeply today. Across Montenegro this month, we see that idea in action: in culture, music, sport, and local traditions, as we celebrate Europe Day across the country. These moments bring people together. They make Europe tangible. They show that Europe is not something distant, but something we build together, every day, in our villages, towns and neighbourhoods”, said Serri.
Ambassador Ponomarenkova underlined the importance of cooperation and exchange of experience between EU Member States and candidate countries.
“Becoming a member of the EU also means taking on numerous obligations and responsibilities. Here in Nikšić, you have made a remarkable step in the right direction when it comes to the treatment of and creating conditions for abandoned animals — pets. You can rightfully be proud of this and you represent a shining example for other cities in your beautiful country,” said Ponomarenkova.
Minister Jakšić Stojanović emphasized that Montenegro’s education system has achieved historic progress towards modernization and alignment with contemporary European standards, but that the most important period is yet to come:
“By becoming a member of the European Union, our country’s education and science sectors will gain new opportunities: further modernization of the teaching process and infrastructure through the use of EU funds, greater mobility for students and researchers, as well as more opportunities for young people to become competitive in the European labour market. Equally important, through togetherness within the European family, we will educate generations who will know how to understand, respect and embrace diversity, while nurturing European democratic values. Along this path, they will learn that education erases borders between countries and people, and that it is not only a path to knowledge, but also a bridge connecting people,” the minister said.
The programme opened with a performance by the Chamber Orchestra of the Music School, conducted by Prof. Jelena Radojičić, featuring Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” and the national anthem of Montenegro.
The cultural and artistic programme was prepared by students and teachers from the Music School “Dara Čokorilo”, the First Vocational Secondary School, and the Secondary School of Economics and Hospitality. Through musical, stage and recitation performances, young people creatively presented European values, with a special emphasis on unity, diversity and the importance of preserving cultural identity.
Following the official programme, a visit to the animal shelter in Brestice was organized, where activities of the local community in the field of animal protection and improvement of communal services were presented.
The celebration of Europe Day in Nikšić is part of a national programme taking place across Montenegro throughout May, with the aim of bringing European values closer to citizens and highlighting the country’s European perspective.
The Europe Day celebrations are organized by the EU-funded projects Europe House, EU4ME and Municipalities4EU in cooperation with Montenegrin municipalities.
