Rome, 27 June – During the official visit to the Republic of Italy, the Chairperson of the Committee on International Relations and Emigrants, Mr Andrija Nikolić, met with the representatives of associations of Montenegrins and Friends of Montenegro in Italy and Italy-Montenegro "Queen Jelena", Ms Danijela Đurđević, Mr Norberto Cacciaglia and Ms Marta Mussini.

President of the Association, Ms Danijela Đurđević, presented the activities of both organisations and projects that are focused on the affirmation of the cultural heritage of Montenegro, especially on the aspects that historically link Italy and Montenegro. The initial idea of establishing the Association of Montenegrins and Friends of Montenegro was to collect data on the number of emigrants from Montenegro in Italy. However, according to the President of the Association, there have been numerous challenges and problems in precise determination of the size of diaspora in Italy.

Vice-President and the Secretary of the Association Italy-Montenegro "Queen Jelena" expressed interest in the cultural connection of the two peoples and informed Mr Nikolić about projects aimed at bringing Montenegro and Montenegrin culture closer to Italy and the Italians.

The fusion of two nations, woven into history, has been reflected today in the extremely good and friendly relations between the two countries, Mr Nikolić pointed out. The support of the Committee on International Relations and Emigrants was expressed at the meeting, as the lead parliamentary body for diaspora issues, activities of both associations, focused primarily on the presentation and promotion of Montenegro, familiarisation with its culture, tradition, rich history, and inevitable natural beauty.