“Montenegrin citizen, both at home or scattered across the world,

the 13 of July is the day when we remember the moment that succeeded to unite Montenegro historically in its crucial achievements. In Berlin in 1878 we received formal international recognition, of the state that had already existed, which confirmed our love for Montenegro. We have existed since the spark of that love for our country, since Duklja, then Zeta, and till Montenegro on its Euro-Atlantic path. Montenegro, small in number, always had to make great history in order to survive.

We commemorate the day that gathers Montenegro, like in 1941 when the smallest country among the South Slavic people had had the courage to stand up. On that day, Montenegrins and other people in Montenegro had shown, as Jean-Paul Sartre said, to the enslaved Europe which way to go.

This is the day that should serve as the warning to all that institutions must not buckle under, but also that there is no institution without the courage of individuals. The year of 1941 shows us how to preserve the honor and dignity of Montenegro. Montenegro is created by all who work honorably, starting from the farmer in the field to the scientist at the university.

State-building and anti-fascist behavior, symbolized by the 13 of July, must be the basis of our decisions and what we will give to Montenegro.

On behalf of the Parliament of Montenegro and my own behalf, I congratulate to you the 13 of July – Statehood Day of Montenegro.”

Ranko Krivokapić