15 February 2019 - At its latest session, the Government of Montenegro passed the Draft Law on the Ratification of the Protocol on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia to NATO and sent it to Parliament for adoption under the shortened procedure.

The rationale of the proposed law states that, by reaching a historic agreement with Greece on the new name in June 2018, the integration of the Republic of North Macedonia into NATO, after many years of stagnation, marked significant progress and at the NATO Summit in July 2018, Macedonia was invited to start accession talks with the Alliance. With the adoption of constitutional changes in the Parliament and the ratification of the Prespa Agreement by the Greek Parliament, the conditions for the signing of the Protocol on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia to NATO were created at the North Atlantic Council meeting (NAC) on 6 February 2019.

The discussion, where several members of the Cabinet took part, highlighted the efforts, visionary and courage in the process of stabilising the situation in Macedonia and the opening of the European and Euro-Atlantic perspective of the country, as well as the continuous support that Montenegro has provided at the meetings between the two prime ministers Duško Marković and Zoran Zaev, as well as on other occasions. Montenegro wants, the discussion stressed, to be among the first NATO members to ratify the Protocol.

Prime Minister Duško Marković noted that Montenegro is pleased to express the desire for the friendly country to end the membership negotiations as quickly as possible and become the 30th member of NATO.

"Montenegro reaffirms the support it has provided to Macedonia, which will become an additional stability factor in the region and its Euro-Atlantic perspective," the Prime Minister concluded.

On the occasion of its session, the Government of Montenegro also adopted the Decision on the calculated value for public sector employees for 2019. After discussion with representatives of trade unions of Montenegro, the calculated value of the coefficient, as well as in previous years, was determined in the amount of 90 euros.

15 February 2019 - On his visit to United Nations Organization for Education, Science, and Culture (UNESCO), Minister of Culture and President of the National Commission for UNESCO Aleksandar Bogdanović also spoke with Audrey Azoulay, General Manager of the organization. 

Minister Bogdanović expressed the pleasure that Montenegro currently has four entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List, two of which are independent - the Natural and Cultural-Historical Area of Kotor and the National Park Durmitor, as well as two multinational nominations - Stećci - medieval cemeteries and Venetian fortifications from the 16th to the 17th centuries, which testifies to the richness of the natural and cultural heritage of Montenegro. 

The meeting paid special attention to the state of the Natural and Cultural-Historical Area of Kotor. Minister Bogdanovic informed Director Azoulay about all activities undertaken by Montenegro to preserve the outstanding universal values of the area, in cooperation with international experts in this field. "By adopting the Action Plan for reaching the requirements of the Committee from Istanbul in 2016, the Government of Montenegro expressed its readiness to firmly address this issue and position it high on the list of its priorities. Therefore, I am confident that, with the support of UNESCO, we will preserve Kotor on the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture World Heritage List," Minister Bogdanović said. 

Director Azoulay expressed satisfaction with all efforts made by Montenegro and pointed out that UNESCO is paying particular attention to the activities of all stakeholders in the area, concluding that the progress is evident and that Montenegro is expected to continue to work towards meeting the UNESCO requirements. 

Furthermore, the meeting discussed the National Park Durmitor and the need for consistent implementation of recommendations from the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture Advisory Mission Report, which will be delivered soon. 

Both sides agreed that it is necessary to protect UNESCO values in all protected areas, but at the same time to ensure their sustainable development, which is possible only with the good coordination of all partners in the process. 

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Montenegro to France and UNESCO Permanent Delegate Dragica Ponorac, Administration for the Protection of Cultural Properties of Božidar Božović and Secretary of the National Commission for UNESCO of Montenegro Milica Nikolić also attended the meeting.

14 February 2019 - The decision of the Agency for Electronic Media of Montenegro (AEM) to ban programs that potentially can be harmful to children came to the approval of the Montenegrin public.

Nevertheless, correspondents of the News Agency Dnevne novine point out that this ban should be applied consistently, and that parents continue to play a key role in protecting children from harmful content.

The Executive Director of the Association, Kristina Mihailović, notes that an inappropriate content on television, which is becoming more and more popular, can send children a bad message that this harmful behaviour is acceptable and desirable. "It is known exactly what the children should look at and what is prohibited under certain conditions. The fact is that these contents are harmful and that we should be especially careful about this, "says Mihailović.

On the other hand, Mihailović highlights that there is still the effect of the Internet and that this prohibition cannot protect the children from harmful content. "It is not realistic that such a decision will make the children stop looking at all content that is not appropriate, but then again, it will, in some way, create an impression that such content should not be displayed in the first place. At the organisation Parent's corner, we talked about this subject, and the psychologist explained that when a parent starts explaining to the children why something is forbidden, that can also be the reason to start a discussion about something that is not a regular subject between parents and children. Certainly, the inappropriate content must be a reason for a talk between children and parents, because in this story the parental role is crucial, "Mihailović said.

Sociologist Mirjana Popovic, however, believes that the ban on the broadcasting of inappropriate content for children is necessary, especially in the context of the society in which we live, "in the context of the penetration of quasi-liberal social values".

"Perhaps the prohibition, as a prohibition of broadcasting, would be undesirable if the media would offer different contents of educational, informational material intended for children, but these contents are very few, even not broadcast, or again when they carry the title “for children”, their content is often not adequate" Popović said for Dnevne novine.

The psychologist of the Examination Centre, Zorica Minć, told DN that she was looking forward to the decision of the AEM, because this decision, as she explains, is a sign that it is necessary to review and ban some content that is being broadcasted every day.

Source: TVCG

14 February 2019 - Minister of Culture Aleksandar Bogdanović met with the Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre Mechtild Rössler. Minister Bogdanović informed Director Rössler about the current topics and policies implemented by Montenegro regarding the four assets enrolled at the UNESCO World Heritage List, two of which are independent: the Natural and Cultural-Historical Area of Kotor and the National Park Durmitor and two multinational serial nominations: Stećci - medieval cemeteries and Venetian fortifications from the 16th to the 17th centuries. 

Minister Bogdanović stressed the importance of the transnational serial nomination of beech forests in Biogradska gora, bearing in mind the fact that it is one of the unspoiled forests of Europe. 

The meeting discussed the issues of the Natural and Cultural-Historical Area of Kotor, which is a particularly important field of cooperation between Montenegro and the World Heritage Centre and the Committee to safeguard the exceptional universal values of this area in the best possible way and preserve its status on the World Heritage List. 

Furthermore, Minister Bogdanović presented activities related to the National Park Durmitor. "We are ready to begin the process of defining the boundaries of the buffer zone, and it is very important for us to enable sustainable development of Durmitor and to fully protect UNESCO values," Minister Bogdanović said. 

Minister Bogdanović emphasised developments in cooperation with the United Nations Office in Montenegro regarding the reconstruction of the Forte Mare Fortress in Herceg Novi as a potential extension of the Venetian fortifications. 
He expressed the need for continued cooperation with UNESCO to better protect the areas in Montenegro that are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Montenegro to France and UNESCO Permanent Delegate UNESCO Dragica Ponorac, Administration for the Protection of Cultural Properties of Božidar Božović and Secretary of the National Commission for UNESCO of Montenegro Milica Nikolić also attended the meeting.

14 February 2019 - Minister of Defence Predrag Bošković takes part in this year's first meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the level of Defence Ministers in Brussels. 

The meeting is addressing key challenges in the field of international security, bearing in mind the need to provide a comprehensive response to such challenges. The meeting also discussed the implementation of the guidelines from the last North Atlantic Council Summit in Brussels, as well as the next steps in fulfilling the critical tasks that are being undertaken to provide continuous improvement of the collective defence system. The defence ministers of the NATO member states stressed the firm commitment and unity of the Alliance in the control of arms, disarmament, and prohibition of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as essential segments that contribute to the preservation of Euro-Atlantic security. 

Minister Bošković stressed that Montenegro continues to firmly implement the Alliance's policies since the unity of all allies is an important prerequisite for preserving the security of their citizens and territory from any possible threats. Speaking about NATO's readiness and capability to adapt to the needs of the changed security environment, the Minister commended the progress made so far in the process of NATO's command structure adaptation, which will enable the quick response to all kinds of potential challenges. Bošković stressed that Montenegro supports the efforts of the Alliance in maintaining peace and stability, and reminded that our country sent a reconnaissance division to the Latvia multinational battalion battle group last year as a sign of its contribution to the Enhanced Forward Presence in the East (eFP). 

Minister Bošković also met with Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Turkey, General Hulusi Akar. 

He thanked General Akar for Turkey's comprehensive support to the reform of the defence system of Montenegro, especially in the field of modernisation of the Armed Forces of Montenegro. Bošković stressed the importance of implementing the Intergovernmental Agreement on the supply of uniform for the needs of the Ministry of Defence of Montenegro for five years, according to which the camouflage uniforms of the members of the Armed Forces of Montenegro were renewed last year. The Minister announced the continuation of the project in this year too. Bošković and Akar discussed the possibilities of restoring the capacity of the Montenegrin Navy, as well as the education of Montenegrin staff in Turkey. Both sides agreed that the Euro-Atlantic perspective of the Western Balkans is crucial for establishing long-term peace in this part of Europe.

13 February 2019 - On the occasion of the official opening of the Kolašin 1600 Ski Resort on Saturday, February 16, the National Tourism Organization of Montenegro (NTO) will organise free transport to this ski centre as well as an entertainment program.

"The Ministry and the NTO have provided free ski pass, food, and drink tasting, as well as a rich entertainment program for all visitors to the ski centre on the day of its official opening," the NTO said in a statement. Free transport, in cooperation with local tourist organisations and the Capital City, will be organized from Podgorica, Bar, Budva and Herceg Novi. All interested citizens can obtain transport information by dialling 0 8000 1300 – Call Centre of Montenegro (all calls to this number are free of charge).

The representatives of the NTO also stated that the special attraction of the event will be the preparation and tasting of Montenegrin traditional meal – kačamak.

The event will include a giant slalom race at 600 meters, which will be opened by the celebrated Yugoslav skier and world champion, Bojan Križaj.

Dj MR Jools and DJ Shar will be in charge of the atmosphere at the ski resort, and the event will also include concerts of the local band Crveno i Crno and the singer Sergej Cetković.

"The entertainment will continue on the city square with concerts, defile majorettes and fireworks. Music stars Anita Popović and Danijel Alibabić will hold concerts at the city square, "the statement concludes.

The completion of the ski centre in Kolašin will turn this city into a serious winter destination in Europe. Since the project is complete, Mount Bjelasica now has 250 km of ski slopes! The infrastructure of the Kolašin 1600 Ski Centre, with accompanying equipment, includes a total of 4,6 kilometres of ski slopes, with one six-seater lift installed. The contractor for the cableway at the Kolašin 1600 site is the Austrian company - Doppelmayr, the world's leading manufacturer of ropeways, cable cars, and ski lifts.

With the completion of works on the 1600 location, Montenegro got a new ski resort owned by the state. By building the access road, infrastructure and cableway, the state has created conditions for attracting investors who will build more accommodation capacities and further develop the ski centre.

13 February 2019 - North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, in Brussels said it is encouraging the Alliance has members such as Montenegro is, and emphasized that NATO enlargement within the Western Balkans has strengthened the Alliance.

“North Atlantic Treaty Organization enlargement within the Western Balkans strengthened the Alliance, and I am glad to see that. Also, NATO enlargement enabled stabilization of the Western Balkans and encouraged many countries to join the Alliance, such as Montenegro did, as well as North Macedonia which is to join NATO soon,” noted Jens Stoltenberg.

“There are numerous challenges and issues, but it’s encouraging to have Slovenia, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro and soon north Macedonia as our member states,” concluded NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg.

Stoltenberg is looking forward to meeting NATO defense ministers tomorrow, including Montenegro defense minister, Predrag Bošković.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović is currently on his visit to the Federal Republic of Germany, and he also spoke at the Aspen Institute in Berlin on the topic of Montenegro's European Union and NATO integration.

"The past year was very successful for the Western Balkans in terms of integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures," the Minister said, pointing out that the only stable and safe Western Balkans contributes to the sustainability of Europe's development and security architecture. 

He pointed to the need and importance of a strong presence of the European Union and the Alliance in the region as key drivers of reform processes. 

Furthermore, Minister Darmanović met in the Bundestag with Chairman of the Committee of EU Affairs Gunther Krichbaum, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs Norbert Röttgen, as well as members of the Parliamentary Group for South East Europe. 

13 February 2019 - On the second day of his visit to the Federal Republic of Germany, Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović spoke at the Aspen Institute in Berlin on the topic of Montenegro's European Union and NATO integration.

"The past year was very successful for the Western Balkans in terms of integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures," the Minister said, pointing out that the only stable and safe Western Balkans contributes to the sustainability of Europe's development and security architecture. 

He pointed to the need and importance of a strong presence of the European Union and the Alliance in the region as key drivers of reform processes. 

Furthermore, Minister Darmanović met in the Bundestag with Chairman of the Committee of EU Affairs Gunther Krichbaum, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs Norbert Röttgen, as well as members of the Parliamentary Group for South East Europe. 

The meetings expressed interest in continuing cooperation with the Bundestag. The Minister also pointed to a full commitment to reforms in key areas. 

Minister Darmanović encouraged further intensification of parliamentary cooperation between the two countries.

We remind you that during the first day of his visit, Minister Darmanović met with his German counterpart Heiko Maas.

"Montenegro is grateful to the Federal Republic of Germany for continuing assistance to the fulfillment of our strategic foreign policy priorities - full membership in NATO and progress in the process of EU accession," Minister Darmanović said, adding that Montenegro's commitment to meeting the Alliance's key tasks and the criteria for membership in the EU is unquestionable.

Minister Darmanović also talked with Foreign Policy Adviser to the Federal Chancellor Jan Hecker. The Minister expressed his belief that the future of the Western Balkans is in the EU, and stressed that the success of the enlargement policy is the basis of the long-term stability and security of the region. Both sides pointed out the importance of the European integration process for the further development of the countries of the Western Balkans.

12 February 2019 - Taking part in this year’s European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) programme in Geneva will be a great honor, pleasure, but also children’s dreams coming true, said the students who went through the selection of the Ministry of Science. Although there is still one more step, the selection of the Commission of CERN, the students are not worried at all, having in mind the so far experience of Montenegrin candidates.

Four Montenegrin students, chosen by the Commission of the Ministry of Science, will have the opportunity to take part in this year’s summer program of the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Geneva, intended for the students of physics and engineering sciences.

Dragan Krstajić, Tamara Ninković, Katarina Milačić and Miloš Manojlović had that honor to take part in the everyday work of CERN during the summer camp and visit the labs and facilities.

Manojlović, who is in his fourth year of studies at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, says he did not expect that he will be selected.

“Honestly, I did not expect it. The competition was strong and I was aware of that. Of course, I was very happy and honored to find out that I was among the four selected candidates,” said Manojlović.

In 2018, he went to international school for nuclear methods for environment and natural sciences in Budva.  He feels so honored to be able to visit laboratories of CERN.

“The fact that you are a physician is an advantage right at the beginning. CERN lab is intended primarily for the research in the domain of physics of elementary particles. My engagement outside the lectures, was directly related to this field and other fields that are subject of interest of CERN”, says Manojlović.

However, one more obstacle stands on their way to Geneva. It s the final selection, organized by the representatives of this prestigious science and research institution. Manojlović believes that all four candidates will be successful. If that happens, Manojlović will focus on learning and improving, but he will also meet new people and make new friendships.

Tamara Ninković thinks that her average grades during the studies determined her selection. She is the student of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Podgorica. This opportunity was her childhood dream. She believes that this program will enable her to acquaint with the most recent achievements in science. She also wants to be involved in tackling the scientific challenges of the 21^st century.

12 February 2019 - Have you already made plans for the holiday of love? With Valentine’s Day coming up, TMN gathered some information on local restaurants and places in Montenegro offering deals for the special occasion.

Kalamper Hotel & Spa

As the love holiday approaches, Kalamper Hotel & Spa has prepared a special offer for all individuals interested in spending time with their loved ones at the shores of the Adriatic Sea. Special offer includes gala dinner for two, bed and breakfast in a room with a sea view, a free pass to SPA & Wellness Centre, free pass to the gym, free parking, welcome drink in the room (coffee, water, tea) and early check in with late checkout. Guests will be entertained by Dino and Džaja Beharović. Price per package is 95 EUR for 2 persons. For those who want to reserve dinner only, without an overnight stay, the price is 20 EUR per person. Drinks are not included in the price.

Lazure Marina & Hotel

Don't miss the special offer for St. Valentine's Day of Lazure Hotel! The offer includes four-course dinner with dessert and Prosecco and the price is 33 EUR/person. The second offer includes a romantic night at Lazure Hotel: a bottle of wine and fruit on arrival, tasty breakfast served in your room and late check-out. The price is 111 EUR for 1 night/room or 190 EUR for 2 nights/room.

Chef's Menu for this Special Day includes warm asparagus with egg white, beetroot sauce, and parmesan chips; risotto with forest mushrooms and deer confit; Wellington steak with grated potatoes, local herbs and demiglace sauce; chocolate soufflé with strawberry surprise and a glass of Prosecco. For reservations please call +382 69 373 120 (Viber) or contact the Lazure Marina & Hotel via Facebook.

CentreVille Hotel & Experiences

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the CentreVille Hotel & Experiences! 3-course gala dinner with wine pairing & live music entertainment at a price of 49 EUR per couple.

Ramada Hotel

Celebrate love at the Ramada Hotel! Surprise your beloved person with gala dinner; enjoy a welcome drink, with pleasant live music, all at a price of only 16 EUR! Plan your day of love ahead, and make a reservation at the Ramada Hotel by dialling 020-622-623 or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Cineplexx CG

For a different experience on Valentine’s Day which will surprise the ladies, spend a romantic evening with a love story at Cineplexx Delta City cinema. The Cineplexx Valentine’s Day offer includes tickets for the movie “Berlin, I love you”, sparkling wine Henkell Rose and the opportunity to win a prize trip to Berlin for two!

"Berlin, I Love You" is the latest film from the anthology series The Cities of Love, launched in 2006 by Emanuel Benbihi. The previous sequels told romantic stories happening in Paris, New York and Rio de Janeiro. Each film consists of a maximum of 10 episodes illustrating the universality of love in big cities around the world. The premiere is scheduled for 8 pm, and the tickets are on sale at the sales booth of Cineplexx Delta City cinema. The Cineplexx repertoire will also include movies: comedy "Destination Wedding", "   Happy Death Day 2U", "Taxi Blues", "Dumplin", "Mule" and many others.