"The decision to award the Order is an expression of the state's highest respect for President Macron for his personal contribution to strengthening the relationship between Montenegro and France, support for the European perspective of Montenegro, as well as commitment to the values of freedom, democracy and European unity," the announcement states.
Special importance to this event, as pointed out, is given by the fact that President Macron is also the first French president to visit Montenegro.
"President Macron is also the first leader of one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to visit Montenegro," Milatović's Cabinet points out.
His visit, at the invitation of President Milatović, comes at a time when Montenegro is hosting the European Union and Western Balkans Summit, the biggest diplomatic event in modern Montenegro.
"Hosting the Summit is a confirmation of Montenegro's new international credibility and the result of President Milatović's strong diplomatic activity. During his mandate, as many as 14 leaders of European Union member states visited Montenegro, which clearly shows that Montenegro has a more visible and stronger position on the European stage today," it said.
The President's Cabinet says that Montenegro is at the end of its European journey and today it participates equally in discussions about the future of the European Union.
"That is precisely why the Summit in Tivat and the visit of President Macron represent a strong confirmation of the goal of Montenegro becoming the next member of the European Union by 2028.
"The presentation of the Order of Montenegro to President Macron is a recognition of the statesman who made a significant contribution to strengthening the friendship between the two countries and supporting the European future of Montenegro," the announcement states.
The Order of Montenegro is awarded to presidents of states, sovereigns and leaders of international organizations for exceptional merit and contribution to the development of friendly relations with Montenegro.
