Speaking at the opening of the exhibition “Europe, We’re Coming Back!” at the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts, Andrija Mandić stated that Montenegro is not entering the European Union as a “foreign body,” but rather returning to the European family as an old European state. The event, organised by the Parliament of Montenegro, was attended by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, European Parliament rapporteur Marjan Šarec and EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johan Sattler, alongside members of the diplomatic corps and public figures.
Mandić said the exhibition symbolically presents Montenegro’s history, spirituality and cultural heritage through the thematic concepts “Logos,” “Apex” and “Microcosm,” arguing that these values form part of the country’s contribution to Europe.
Referring to Europe Day and the Schuman Declaration, he stated that Montenegro now has a historic opportunity to secure full EU membership and described this objective as a common aspiration shared across generations.
The parliamentary speaker also reflected on the 20th anniversary of Montenegro’s 2006 independence referendum, arguing that divisions created after the vote should be overcome through reconciliation and broader political inclusion. According to Mandić, political changes after 2020 opened space for dialogue and social healing, while younger generations remain central to Montenegro’s European future. He concluded that the country’s path toward the European Union should benefit all communities living in Montenegro.
