DPM Zogović speaks at the celebration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China

Deputy Prime Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Milun Zogović, on behalf of the Government of Montenegro and in his personal capacity, extended warm congratulations on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, expressing hope that China and Montenegro will continue to develop friendly relations.

We convey in full the Deputy Prime Minister's speech on the occasion of China's National Day:

Your Excellency, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, Mr. Chen Xufeng,

Distinguished members of the diplomatic corps,

Esteemed hosts, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great honor and pleasure to extend, this evening, on behalf of the Government of Montenegro and in my personal name, my most sincere congratulations on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China - a jubilee that symbolizes not only the historic moment in which modern China was born, but also the long journey of development, reform, and the building of one of today's most influential countries.

Since 1 October 1949, the People's Republic of China has traversed a remarkable path - from a country of challenges and reconstruction to a global economic power, one of the leaders in technology, and an active participant on the international stage. Throughout this historic process, China has preserved the richness of its ancient culture, deeply rooted traditional values, and the diplomatic wisdom that remains as inspiring and essential today as it was throughout past centuries.

An old Chinese proverb says: "Friendship between peoples is the foundation of friendship between states."

In that simple yet profound thought lies the essence of the relationship that Montenegro and the People's Republic of China have been building over the years - a relationship based on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared aspiration for stability, cooperation, and prosperity.

Today, as the world faces many challenges - from climate change and economic turbulence to threats to peace and global security - strong friendships between states are not a luxury, but a necessity, a matter of statesmanship and responsibility.

Montenegro highly values the support and partnership that the People's Republic of China has consistently provided, through infrastructure projects, economic initiatives, cultural exchange, and educational programmes. China has been, and remains, a reliable partner in Montenegro's infrastructural development, and I particularly wish to highlight the participation of Chinese companies in the construction of Montenegro's modern transport infrastructure.

Furthermore, cooperation within the framework of the "Belt and Road" initiative provides an additional platform for concrete projects and mutual collaboration. On its European path, Montenegro remains firmly committed to the principles of open dialogue and reciprocal cooperation based on respect for sovereignty - values that we share with our friends in the People's Republic of China.

Therefore, today we do not only celebrate the anniversary of a great country - we also celebrate the bridges that connect us, the ideas that unite us, and the friendship that guides us forward.

An ancient Chinese wisdom teaches: If you want to go fast - go alone. If you want to go far - go together.

That is why Montenegro and China are successfully walking together on the paths of cooperation, friendship, and long-term partnership.

In this spirit, I wish the People's Republic of China continued stable development, and to its citizens prosperity, health, and peace.