DPM Ivanović attends commemoration of the 230th anniversary of the Battle of Martinići: Freedom is preserved through responsibility, unity and collective effort

Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Filip Ivanović attended last night's commemoration of the 230th anniversary of the Battle of Martinići, on behalf of the Prime Minister and in his own name, paying tribute to the heroes whose feat permanently shaped the course of Montenegrin statehood.

Addressing those in attendance, Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović said that the Battle of Martinići remains a symbol of the spirit of freedom, unity and the determination of people to defend their right to liberty and their own state. He noted that the victory achieved in 1796, under the leadership of Saint Peter of Cetinje and Governor Jovan Radonjić, over the numerically superior forces of Mahmud Pasha Bushati, was not merely a military triumph, but also a cornerstone of the further development of Montenegrin statehood, ultimately confirmed through international recognition at the Congress of Berlin in 1878.

Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović stressed that the values that guided Montenegro's ancestors – courage, solidarity, responsibility and the willingness to place the common good above personal interests – remain just as relevant today, as Montenegro continues to build a modern, democratic and European society. He emphasised that freedom is safeguarded through strong institutions, the rule of law, economic development and mutual respect among all citizens, and that unity and solidarity are essential for the country's continued progress and the successful achievement of its European aspirations.

Battles fought against overwhelmingly stronger invaders produced people who, while defending their dignity and basic existence, believed in what seemed almost impossible – positive outcomes, surpassing themselves and the real capacities and limitations of ordinary people and soldiers. This extraordinary clash of the few against the many, and this remarkable victory of a smaller force over a much larger one, repeated throughout our history, has shaped a national character that remains recognisable to this day, Ivanović said.

In concluding his address, Deputy Prime Minister Ivanović paid tribute to all the heroes of the Battle of Martinići, stressing that their sacrifice obliges present and future generations to preserve Montenegro's historical heritage, safeguard peace and continue building Montenegro as a home for all its citizens.