“Young people are extremely important for the European integration process. In Montenegro, we lack knowledge about the EU and the negotiation process, and it is important that we all actively learn and know more each day about the significance of our country’s entry into the EU,” stated Bojan Božović, State Secretary in the Ministry of European Affairs.
He participated today in the panel debate “The European Union Through the Eyes of Youth,” organized in Kolašin by the NGO Multimedial Montenegro as part of Europe Day celebrations, with the support of the EU Delegation to Montenegro and the Ministry of European Affairs.
In addition to Božović, the panel featured Ricardo Seri, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, and Ralf Reusch, Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Montenegro. The Mayor of Kolašin, Petko Bakić, also participated in the panel.
State Secretary Božović stated that this type of dialogue with young people is necessary for the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and solutions. He emphasized that the active involvement of the civil sector in the EU integration process is an indispensable and unique resource for generating brilliant ideas to enhance all processes.
“We do not have time to waste; we must understand that joining the EU also means improving the quality of life and raising the standard of living for all citizens of Montenegro,” concluded Božović.
The event was attended by young people from Kolašin, Bijelo Polje, Mojkovac, and Berane, who exchanged views with the panelists regarding the role of youth in the EU accession process, the benefits for young people from the accession process and future membership, as well as how young people perceive Montenegro’s accession to the EU.
Following the panel, an open-air photo exhibition, promotional information booths, and the prize game “Europe at Your Fingertips” were organized at the city square.