Đurašković: A strong message of loyalty to Montenegro echoed from Cetinje

Twenty years after the historic May 21, the message from Cetinje resonated strongly and unequivocally -  the idea of an independent, civic, and European Montenegro not only endures, but lives on with full intensity among its citizens. In the city that has symbolized Montenegrin statehood for centuries, this year’s jubilee celebration demonstrated the strength of unity, emotion, and loyalty to the state. The Mayor of the Capital City of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, told Portal ETV that this anniversary once again confirmed how deeply the values of May 21 are rooted in Montenegrin society.

Đurašković told Portal ETV that this year’s celebration of May 21 showed just how deeply the idea of an independent, civic, and European Montenegro is embedded among the citizens of our country.

- This was most evident in Cetinje - the historic Capital of Montenegro - where tens of thousands of people gathered to mark 20 years of restored independence, sending a powerful message of loyalty to their state. On the other hand, I believe that the fact that some municipalities did not organize Independence Day celebrations additionally reminded us how important it is to nurture our relationship with the state and the values symbolized by May 21 - said Đurašković.

Speaking about the significance of the jubilee two decades after the restoration of independence, he emphasized that today, perhaps more clearly than ever, we understand the importance of the decision made on May 21, 2006.

- Only with time does it become fully clear how important it is to have your own state, the ability to determine the direction of its development independently, and the right to preserve the identity and values upon which you build the society of the future - Đurašković stated.

According to him, what gives special weight to everything is the fact that it all took place in Cetinje - a city that has for centuries been a symbol of freedom, continuity, and Montenegrin statehood.

- When you see tens of thousands of people gathered in one place and the emotion that unites them, then you know that May 21 is not only one of the most important dates in modern Montenegrin history, but also a lasting value that lives through generations - Đurašković emphasized.

That is precisely why he believes that what was collectively experienced during this jubilee will endure far beyond the celebration itself.

- In recent days, Cetinje has once again shown that there are moments when Montenegro speaks with one voice - a voice of respect for its freedom, its dignity, and everything that has sustained us throughout history - Đurašković concluded.