“I am delighted that today we are celebrating Europe Day together, a day that marks the birth of the European idea–a project built on peace, cooperation, and unity,” said the Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro, Oana Cristina Popa, at the opening ceremony of the flower carpet at the square of St. Peter of Cetinje in Podgorica.
She emphasised that, over the past four years, Europe Day has been celebrated in various cities across Montenegro by laying flower carpets. “Flowers are our gift to the people of Montenegro. They symbolise unity, solidarity, and friendship between the EU and Montenegro,” Popa emphasised.
This year’s flower carpet covers an area of 274 square meters and is inspired by the tradition of Montenegrin craftsmanship.
“The floral masterpiece, as every year, was created by the incredibly talented landscape architect Jelena Jestrović, with around 18 thousand pots of local flowers. Like the EU flag, it consists of 12 stars, with a design inspired by traditional Montenegrin handicrafts. The carpet thus combines the symbolism of Montenegrin tradition and culture with the symbolism of EU countries. It perfectly encapsulates everything that Europe Day represents,” said Popa.
She added that after several days of displaying the flower carpet, the flowers will be given to the citizens of Podgorica and planted in public green areas.
The Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević emphasised her sense of pride because the majority of citizens support Montenegro’s accession to the EU.
“The EU accession process belongs to all of us. That’s why we celebrate Europe Day all over Montenegro,” said Gorčević, adding that Montenegro will continue to foster European values.
The Mayor of Podgorica, Olivera Injac, stated that Europe is united in its desire for peace and solidarity and highlighted that the flower carpet is a symbol of respect for the Montenegrin traditions.
Alongside the traditional EU fair, where Embassies presented the culture and history of EU countries, programmes and projects of the EU in Montenegro and partners were presented as well. Visitors of the Central Manifestation of Europe Day had the opportunity to enjoy a concert by the Zvjezdice choir, watch a sand show inspired by the comic book heroine Super Stella, and spend some time with pets as well.
Outdoor chess, outdoor painting, and a virtual reality corner were also organised. For fashion lovers, a fashion show of models made from recycled materials was showcased.
