Podgorica, (MINA) – Germany is Montenegro’s reliable partner, whose political support, expertise and assistance have significantly contributed to the country’s progress on the European path, President Jakov Milatovic said.

Speaking at the reception marking German Unity Day, hosted by the German Ambassador to Montenegro Edgar Alfred Gansen, he recalled the EU – Western Balkans Summit in Tivat, and assessed that the first visit by a German Chancellor to Montenegro was a historically important event for the country.

Milatovic stressed that Germany reunification was not only a national achievement, but also a strong message that Europe could overcome divisions and build a more united, peaceful and free continent.

He said that Montenegro’s European future rested on the same values and reiterated the country’s determination to become the 28tth EU member state by 2028.

“It is an ambitious and demanding goal. It entails serious reforms, strong, independent and resilient institutions, further strengthening of the rule of law, a more competitive economy and concrete results that our citizens can see and feel in their daily lives. The responsibility for achieving it lies, above all, with us”, said Milatovic.

Speaking about bilateral relations, he emphasized that the European path had brought Montenegro and Germany even closer, connecting their institutions, economies, universities and, above all, their citizens.

“Montenegro has such an opportunity today. We know that our success depends on our work and our reforms. But we also know the value of friends and partners who believe in the European future of Montenegro”, said Milatović.

He concluded that Germany was precisely such a friend, partner and ally of Montenegro and, congratulating its citizens on the German Unity Day, wished them peace, prosperity and success.