Montenegro recently celebrated its Statehood Day on July 13th, commemorating two pivotal historical moments: its international recognition as an independent state at the Berlin Congress in 1878 and the 1941 uprising against fascism. The nation marked the occasion with official receptions, international congratulations, and a notable achievement in science.
A Dual Commemoration of Independence and Resistance
Montenegro’s Statehood Day honors two significant events that shaped its national identity. The first is the Berlin Congress of July 13, 1878, where Montenegro gained international recognition as an independent state. The second is the July 13, 1941, uprising, which marked the beginning of the Montenegrin people’s resistance against fascism, considered the largest uprising in enslaved Europe at that time.
President Jakov Milatović emphasized the enduring significance of this date, stating that it symbolizes statehood and the unwavering commitment to freedom, honor, and dignity. He highlighted that the day is not merely a holiday but a testament to the nation’s foundational values and its refusal to yield to injustice.
International Tributes and Local Celebrations
Statehood Day garnered widespread international recognition, with numerous countries extending their felicitations to Montenegro. Heads of state and foreign ministries from around the globe sent congratulatory messages, underscoring Montenegro’s standing in the international community.
Key international well-wishers included:
- Azerbaijan: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended congratulations via its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
- Kuwait: His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent a cable of congratulations to President Milatović.
- Bahrain: HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa congratulated President Milatović.
- Qatar: The Amir of Qatar sent congratulations to the President of Montenegro.
- Saudi Arabia: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent congratulatory cables.
- United Arab Emirates: The UAE President and Vice Presidents congratulated Montenegro on its National Day.
- United States: The U.S. Department of State issued a statement congratulating Montenegro.
Locally, celebrations included official receptions, with President Milatović hosting an event at the residence in Cetinje, reflecting on the nation’s journey and future aspirations.
Historic Achievement in Science
Adding to the celebratory mood, Montenegro achieved a historic milestone on Statehood Day. Aleksa Damjanović, a student from "Slobodan Škerović" Gymnasium in Podgorica, secured a bronze medal at the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2025) in Dubai. This marks the first time a Montenegrin representative has won a medal at this prestigious global competition.
- Participant: Aleksa Damjanović
- Event: 57th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2025)
- Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Achievement: Bronze Medal
- Significance: First-ever medal for Montenegro at the IChO
This success, announced by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, was celebrated as a testament to Montenegro’s emerging talent and potential in scientific fields, further enhancing the national pride on this significant day.
Sources
- Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry Congratulates Montenegro on National Day, AzerNews.
- Montenegro celebrates its Statehood Day, Sarajevo Times.
- KUNA : Kuwait Deputy Amir, Crown Prince congratulates Montenegro on nat’l day – diwan, كونا.
- Aleksa brings Montenegro its first medal from the Chemistry Olympiad on National Day, vijesti.me.
- Montenegro celebrates its Statehood Day, vijesti.me.
