Montenegro in 2026 should be recognized for its work, order and dignity

Montenegro in 2026 should be recognized for its work, order and dignity, said President Jakov Milatović in his New Year’s message to citizens in the country and abroad.

He said that at the end of the year, “each of us looks back and sees what has been done, how we have lived and what we have endured.”

“But we also have to ask ourselves what else we owe each other. We owe an honest relationship, we owe the truth, and we owe results,” Milatović said.

As he stated, the past year was a year of challenges, but also a year in which one thing was clearly seen.

“Montenegro can and must do better. We have a year ahead of us in which we must act decisively and responsibly. In 2026, we will finish the job,” Milatović emphasized.

This, he said, means that the economy must work for people, so that progress is seen in everyday life, in a more secure salary, in family stability, and in the feeling that honest work pays off.

“This also means knowing where every euro of public money goes, and that work is won based on knowledge, diligence and results,” added Milatović.

According to him, finishing the job also means strong institutions, institutions that work according to the law and in the interests of citizens and that strengthen trust in justice and the state.

Milatović emphasized that only such institutions can be the foundation of a stable and orderly society.

“Ahead of us is the year in which we celebrate 20 years since the restoration of Montenegro’s independence, an anniversary that obliges us not symbolically, but through concrete results, to fill the restored statehood with strong institutions, true democracy and a just society,” Milatović said.

Therefore, as he said, power must be returned to citizens through open electoral lists, so that they can elect people they trust, by name and surname, and not party symbols.

“We are also completing the work through conversations with citizens, not from closed offices, but on the ground, in every settlement, village and city, to listen, talk and find solutions together,” said Milatović.

In his congratulatory message, he stated that he especially wanted to address young people.

“Montenegro has room for your knowledge, energy and ideas, and it is our obligation to give you the chance to stay, work and succeed here,” said Milatović.

As he said, he addresses the pensioners “who built this country and whose experience and dignity remain the foundation of our society” with the same respect.

“The European path is our choice because it means a more orderly state and a safer life. It is the path on which we strengthen institutions, open up more good opportunities and build legal certainty. Our goal remains clear, Montenegro as a full member of the European Union by 2028,” Milatović said.

He said that is why they are continuing the diplomatic offensive.

According to Milatović, in 2026, Montenegro will be a place for serious meetings with European partners, “where we will be a good host, build trust and confirm that we are ready to take on the responsibility of a future member.”

“We face reforms that are not easy, but they are necessary and require work, patience and joint effort. The New Year is an opportunity to come together around a common goal and turn it into results. In 2026, Montenegro should be recognized for its work, order and dignity,” said Milatović.

He wished all citizens good health, peace, and every family and personal happiness.

“Happy New Year. Long live Montenegro,” Milatović said in his greeting.

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