Eighty years after the death of Montenegro's first foreign Minister Duke Gavro Vuković, I wish to reemphasize the significance of the words that his successor in the new and modern Montenegro, Minister Roćen quoted today: a one way diplomacy is indeed the worst thing that could happen to a small country. And, recent happenings in the region and wider proved that being led by political, ethnical or religious romantism can be fatal. Because you acknowledge the experiences from recent times and the struggles of your elders you are now being mobilized as youth to make your mark in society. You, as the new generation of diplomats, have a tremendous chance to get involved in the shaping of relations between countries in these times of change. I hope this Summer School will challenge you to create opportunities that you want to experience, help you improve your diplomatic skils and gain a greater understanding of self-potential. John Fitzgerald Kennedy said: 'Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate'. Thus, my message to you is to continue the discussion and networking you've started today, and to stay open to new ideas coming from your fellow colleagues from the region. The future of the Western Balkans is in the EU, and you should all work together to help in making this a reality as soon as possible.

Berane, June 3, 2008