20 years since the restoration of independence marked in Frankfurt – Ibrahimović: The diaspora remains a strong pillar of Montenegro’s European and international affirmation

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović visited Frankfurt, where he attended a formal reception marking the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Montenegro’s independence, organized by the Consulate General of Montenegro in Frankfurt.

Addressing numerous guests from political, business, diplomatic and public life, Ibrahimović emphasized the significance of this milestone, which symbolizes two decades of democratic development, international positioning and Montenegro’s European path, while preserving the country’s multicultural harmony and civic character.

The reception also featured remarks by Manfred Pentz, Hessian Minister for Federal, European and International Affairs and Bureaucracy Reduction; Patrick Burghardt, Mayor of Rüsselsheim am Main; Mirsad Azemović, Minister of Diaspora; and Amer Cikotić, Consul General of Montenegro in Frankfurt. They highlighted the importance of cooperation between Montenegro and the Federal Republic of Germany, as well as the vital role of Montenegro’s diaspora in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting Montenegro abroad. German officials once again reaffirmed their strong support for Montenegro’s path toward membership in the European Union. In addition to numerous consuls general and honorary consuls of other countries, the reception was also attended by Brian Heath, Consul General of the United States in Frankfurt.

In his address, Ibrahimović stated that Montenegro today is a reliable NATO ally, a credible international partner, and a country firmly committed to achieving full membership in the European Union, emphasizing that European integration remains a strategic objective that unites Montenegrin society. Speaking about the role of the diaspora, Ibrahimović stressed that Montenegrins living abroad serve as a bridge of friendship, cooperation and trust between Montenegro and the countries in which they reside, expressing gratitude for their continued contribution to preserving national identity, promoting the country, and strengthening economic and cultural ties.

He also noted that the twentieth anniversary of independence provides an opportunity to reaffirm Montenegro’s commitment to further democratic and economic development, while nurturing the values of unity, mutual respect and a shared European future. He underscored that Montenegro’s strength lies in its diversity, civic harmony and ability to build partnerships based on trust and European values.