Statement by the Minister without Portfolio on Nikšić being named European Capital of Culture 2030

I express my sincere joy, pride, and deep gratitude to all those who believed in this project and tirelessly worked for our city to stand shoulder to shoulder with Europe’s most significant cultural centres.

Nikšić has always been more than a geographical place – it is a city of spirit, creativity, and openness. For decades, it has proven that from its streets, factories, schools, and stages emerge strength, ideas, and talent that cross all borders.

Under the slogan ‘Open City’, Nikšić today embodies what Montenegro has to offer to Europe – authenticity, courage, and a culture of dialogue. This title is not only recognition for the city I come from, but for the entire country that believes culture builds bridges between tradition and modernity, between local pride and European values.

Today, Nikšić shows that culture is not just an ornament of society, but its driving force.

This is a victory of unity, vision, and belief that our city can and must be a space of inspiration, encounter, and future.

This success obliges us to continue investing in culture, in young people, in creative spaces, and in all those whose work and energy make Nikšić recognised as a city of open doors, creativity, and pride.

Nikšić has always been – and remains – a city of steel, beer, and rock’n’roll. But from today, it is also a city of European culture.

A city that breathes art, thinks boldly, and creates with pride.

For Nikšić. For culture. For Montenegro.