Ibrahimović opens Regional Diplomatic Ski Race in Kolašin

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović officially opened the Regional Diplomatic Ski Race today in Kolašin, with participation from numerous representatives of the diplomatic corps from countries across the region.

Speaking about the significance of the event, Ibrahimović emphasized that it was organized on the initiative of the embassies of Montenegro and the Czech Republic in Tirana, joined by the embassies of Croatia, Slovenia, and Slovakia in Tirana, with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro. He expressed gratitude to all partners for their joint engagement, noting that such gatherings have the potential to become a cherished tradition, further strengthening regional ties and fostering cooperation through sport and informal dialogue.

Ibrahimović highlighted that it is a special honor to host the event in the year marking 20 years since Montenegro’s restored independence, underscoring the country’s status as a reliable NATO member, the most advanced EU accession candidate, and a good neighbor. He recalled that Montenegro presides over the Berlin Process and the Western Balkans Fund this year, and will assume the chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in November. Additionally, Montenegro will host the European Union–Western Balkans Summit in Tivat.

A special focus of his speech was on the history of skiing in Montenegro, noting that 135 years ago Norwegian military officer and sportsman Henrik Angell brought the first skis to the country. On the initiative of Prince Nikola I Petrović Njegoš, the first ski club and school in the Balkans were established on the slopes of Lovćen in 1892, laying the foundation for the country’s winter sports tradition.

Ibrahimović also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in sports and infrastructure, expressing confidence that continuous improvements in connectivity, standards, and services could contribute to further regional development and the future potential to host major international sporting events.

He noted that Montenegro, marking 35 years since the adoption of the Declaration on Montenegro as an Ecological State, remains strongly committed to sustainable development, the preservation of natural resources, and the improvement of citizens’ quality of life, alongside strengthening the rule of law and European values. In this context, he emphasized that multiculturalism, harmony, and openness are enduring values of Montenegrin society.

Concluding his address, Ibrahimović expressed his belief that today’s encounters and sporting competition will further strengthen friendly ties among regional countries and that participants’ impressions will serve as the best confirmation that Montenegro is a land of diversity, opportunities, and genuine hospitality.