Montenegro’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Jovan Mirkovic, welcomed Diplomatic Watch for an exclusive interview at the Montenegrin Embassy in Washington on October 30, 2025. A physicist by training, Ambassador Mirkovic brings a thoughtful, modern perspective to diplomacy, shaped by his experience serving as Montenegro’s envoy in both Japan and the United States.
His approach blends science, culture, and statecraft, reflecting Montenegro’s position as a NATO ally, a European Union candidate, and the world’s first ecological state. In this conversation, he reflects on key milestones in U.S. and Montenegro relations and outlines opportunities to strengthen collaboration in diplomacy, trade, and innovation.
Montenegro’s cultural and natural heritage, from the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor and Europe’s deepest canyon to ancient olive trees over two millennia old, offers a unique foundation for engagement. The interview provides insight into Montenegro’s evolving role on the international stage, its scenic landscapes, and its forward-looking vision for partnership and progress.
You’ve served as Montenegro’s Ambassador to both Japan and the United States. How have these experiences shaped your approach to diplomacy?
Serving as Montenegro’s Ambassador to both Japan and the United States has been a profound privilege, offering a rare vantage point while demanding a multidisciplinary and multilayered approach to diplomacy.
Montenegro’s diplomatic ties with both nations are longstanding. The first contact with the United States occurred in 1856, and the first American ambassador, John Brinkerhoff Jackson, was appointed 120 years ago. Diplomatic relations with Japan date back to 1884. Major Yasumasa Fukushima became the first Japanese diplomat to engage with Montenegro.
Japan and the United States exhibit a cultural contrast, differing in values, social behavior, and communication styles. Japan emphasizes collectivism, harmony, and indirect communication, prioritizing group consensus and social cohesion. In contrast, the United States values individualism, self-expression, independence, directness, and personal achievement.
In Japan, social and professional relationships are shaped by age, rank, and seniority. Respectful language and formal etiquette are essential. Long working hours and dedication to one’s company are common, and although lifetime employment is less prevalent today, its legacy remains. Japanese design and lifestyle reflect simplicity, balance, and reverence for nature.
In the United States, social interactions are generally informal, even across hierarchies. First names are commonly used, and casual dress is widely accepted. The culture promotes a “can-do” attitude, risk-taking, and entrepreneurial spirit. Innovation often takes precedence over tradition. As a melting pot of cultures, the U.S. reflects its diversity in food, language, and social norms.
Japan stands as an icon of modernity—demonstrating how innovation and competitiveness can coexist with deep cultural preservation. It is a technological and cultural powerhouse with significant influence in Asia and global soft power. The United States, as a geopolitical leader, shapes global norms and alliances, characterized by openness, competition, and a relentless drive for innovation.
In Tokyo, diplomacy often begins with a bow. In Washington, while protocol is respected, a handshake and flexibility are prized. American diplomacy moves swiftly, often shaped by political cycles, whereas Japanese diplomacy unfolds through layers of consensus and ceremony.
Representing Montenegro in both capitals requires harmonizing its voice across continents and power centers, resonating with distinct strategic priorities: security in Washington, sustainability and innovation in Tokyo. Montenegro offers a compelling vision as a bridge, a gateway to Europe, and a steward of natural beauty, committed to peace and ecological responsibility.
History provides the foundation for the future—and the future will be shaped by today’s rapid advancements in science and technology. To thrive amid global challenges and dynamic change, Montenegro must pursue a development path rooted in knowledge. This calls for robust cooperation in technology, innovation, green policies, science, and education.
Japan’s emphasis on robotics, scientific excellence, and environmental stewardship aligns beautifully with Montenegro’s constitutional designation as the world’s first Ecological State. Meanwhile, the United States offers access to funding, advanced technologies, academic networks, and diaspora engagement.
With a background in physics and extensive international training, how does your academic foundation influence your diplomatic perspective?
In today’s complex technological era, marked by an unprecedented pace of change, diplomacy must evolve beyond tradition. It must become a discipline of synthesis—where science, culture, and strategy converge. Trust in science and in the creative potential of humanity forms the foundation of the technological innovations that have expanded civilization’s horizons, driven economic growth, and enhanced global competitiveness.
New technologies are dramatically changing the world around us and are rapidly transforming the ways we work, learn, travel, and communicate.
New technologies are rapidly transforming how we work, learn, travel, and communicate. This transformation demands a new diplomatic mindset — one shaped by scientific reasoning and systems thinking. My own foundation in science has shaped my diplomatic approach: I see the world not as a series of isolated events, but as a system of interdependent forces. Physics teaches us to analyze phenomena by examining their structure, identifying connections among their components, and understanding their evolution over time. It trains the mind to detect patterns across seemingly disparate domains, equipping diplomats with strategic foresight and analytical precision.
Just as physics seeks symmetry and balance in nature, diplomatic language must embody clarity and equilibrium. Science also instills a commitment to evidence-based decision-making, encouraging policies grounded in data and facts—building trust through transparency and reason.
Technological progress has democratized access to education and unleashed new spaces for creativity. Today, the global research community is growing three times faster than the world’s population. The synergy of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, and cognitive sciences promises even more dramatic transformations ahead.
Science is increasingly multidisciplinary and transnational. The rise in internationally co-authored research reflects the growing role of scientific diplomacy. In an era where science and technology shape global influence, academic collaboration becomes a diplomatic asset—an expression of soft power.
Knowledge transcends borders and builds bridges across cultures. Every student we empower becomes an ambassador of Montenegro’s values. By mastering etiquette across continents, we treat protocol not merely as formality, but as a signature of respect and intent.
Understanding how universities, ministries, and foundations operate provides institutional insight, enabling us to navigate funding, recognition, and collaboration with international centers and organizations.
If we embrace the scientific mind in diplomatic service, diplomacy becomes, like physics, a search for truth. We must speak with the clarity of scientists and the grace of diplomats.
The U.S. and Montenegro share 120 years of relations. What milestones do you view as defining for this partnership?
Key milestones in U.S.–Montenegro relations include the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1905, the re-recognition of Montenegro’s independence in 2006, and NATO accession in 2017— each marking a deepening of strategic, cultural, and democratic alignment.
The first diplomatic contact between Montenegro and the United States dates back to 1851 in Naples, Italy, when Montenegrin Bishop Petar II Petrović Njegoš, at the invitation of American Vice Admiral Thomas Conover, visited the battleship USS Independent. At the time, Montenegro, a state with a thousand-year history, was engaged in a centuries-long struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire, ultimately recognized at the Congress of Berlin on July 13, 1878.
In the early 20th century, approximately 25,000 Montenegrins emigrated to the United States, representing nearly half of Montenegro’s labor force. While some returned, many remained, and today their descendants contribute to the rich tapestry of American society.
The United States formally recognized the Principality of Montenegro in 1905, with John Jackson appointed as the first American ambassador. This early recognition by President Theodore Roosevelt signaled Montenegro’s emergence on the global stage and affirmed U.S. support for its sovereignty.
Following World War I, the American Red Cross launched a humanitarian mission in 1919, establishing hospitals, shelters, and vocational schools for war orphans across Montenegro.
During World War II, Montenegrins were the first in occupied Europe to launch a nationwide armed uprising against fascism on July 13, 1941. French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre praised this act as “one of the greatest achievements of the libertarian tradition of the 20th century,” recognizing it as a powerful symbol of resistance and the fight for freedom. In the final battles for liberation in 1944, the U.S. Air Force played a significant role in defeating fascist forces in Montenegro and the future Yugoslavia.
The United States strongly supported Montenegro’s restoration of independence on May 21, 2006, swiftly establishing diplomatic relations and appointing Ambassador Roderick Moore to Podgorica. Since then, Montenegro has unequivocally embraced Western values of democracy, freedom, and human rights.
Montenegro’s NATO accession in 2017 stands as a landmark achievement of its post-independence diplomacy, aligning the country with the United States and its allies in the transatlantic security architecture.
In October 2024, bilateral relations entered a new phase with the signing of a Memorandum of Economic Cooperation as part of the U.S.–Montenegro Economic Dialogue. The United States continues to support Montenegro’s EU accession efforts, emphasizing the importance of rule of law, transparency, and regional cooperation.
As the world’s first constitutionally declared ecological state, and a country of majestic mountains, canyons, lakes, and beaches, Montenegro is increasingly attractive to American tourists. Its natural beauty and cultural depth offer a unique experience that blends environmental stewardship with historical richness.
Today, Montenegro stands as a committed partner in global progress, while the United States remains a steadfast ally—supporting democratic development and fostering trust through shared values. This anniversary is not only a moment of reflection, but a renewed call to deepen cooperation and honor a legacy built on enduring friendship, with gratitude for the past and confidence in the future.
You recently facilitated visits from American companies to Montenegro. Which sectors do you see as most promising, and how will this collaboration impact both nations?
The recent visits by prestigious American companies mark a new phase of strategic investment and bilateral growth, affirming that Montenegro is ready to grow alongside its trusted allies—open to investment, innovation, and enduring partnership. This momentum follows the signing of the Memorandum of Economic Cooperation in Washington, which inaugurated a new chapter in U.S.–Montenegro relations and laid the foundation for deeper connectivity between the economic sectors of both countries.
There is a shared intention to elevate cooperation to the level of Strategic Dialogue and Partnership, positioning Montenegro as a reliable actor in the Western Balkans—committed to maintaining peace, stability, and regional progress.
Key sectors driving Montenegro’s smart development—and offering the greatest potential for U.S.–Montenegro collaboration—include transport infrastructure, trade, energy security, technology, cyber innovation, digitalization, sustainable tourism, information and communication technologies, and high-tech industries.
Major infrastructure upgrades are planned across roads, airports, ports, rail networks, and digital corridors. American firms bring world-class expertise in smart infrastructure, sustainable construction, and public-private partnerships. Investment in clean energy and grid technologies will reduce dependence on imports and position Montenegro as a regional leader in sustainability, with opportunities for innovation in emerging markets with high growth potential.
There is growing interest in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital governance. U.S. companies can play a pivotal role in supporting Montenegro’s digital transformation, particularly in e-government, educational technology, and biotechnology.
Montenegro’s natural beauty—its coastline, mountain regions, and cultural heritage—continues to attract high-end tourism. U.S. companies are exploring opportunities in luxury resorts, eco-tourism, and heritage preservation, leveraging Montenegro’s appeal as a boutique destination.
In science and high-tech, Montenegrin universities and research institutions are ready to collaborate on cutting-edge fields such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, quantum materials, and robotics, where Montenegro can serve as a nimble and strategic partner. These sectors open new prospects for a modern Montenegro, offering American companies a gateway into Southeastern Europe and a platform for transatlantic collaboration. Montenegro provides a favorable environment for investors and welcomes foreign experts to lead transformative projects.
The country’s investment advantages include its strategic location, favorable climate, ease of doing business, stable banking system, participation in SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area), equal treatment of domestic and foreign investors, and one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe.
We believe that U.S.–Montenegro cooperation can drive job creation, skills transfer—especially for youth and returning diaspora—and enhance Montenegro’s global visibility as a stable, investment-ready partner in the Balkans.
Montenegro’s EU path and NATO membership position it uniquely in the Balkans. How do these relationships inform your strategy with the United States?
Montenegro officially joined NATO on June 5, 2017, following a rigorous accession process that encompassed reforms in defense, intelligence, and the rule of law. NATO membership has firmly anchored Montenegro within the architecture of global stability, earning trust as a nation capable of withstanding regional challenges and contributing meaningfully to transatlantic security.
This membership has strengthened Montenegro’s defense capabilities, modernized its institutions, and affirmed its commitment to shared democratic values. Strategically, it has enabled joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and cybersecurity cooperation—enhancing U.S. presence in the Adriatic and supporting the integration of the Western Balkans into Euro-Atlantic defense structures. For the United States, Montenegro’s NATO status ensures a reliable partner in Southeastern Europe and reinforces regional stability. These ties guide U.S. engagement toward deeper investment, defense collaboration, and support for institutional reform.
Simultaneously, Montenegro stands as the most advanced Western Balkan country on the path to EU accession, having opened all negotiation chapters and demonstrating sustained commitment to reform and integration. This journey is not solely about joining a union – it is about transforming Montenegro into a destination for investment, innovation, and democratic resilience. The United States supports Montenegro’s EU aspirations and encourages investment in sectors aligned with EU standards, including energy, infrastructure, and digital governance.
Montenegro’s dual alignment with NATO and the European Union positions it as a stable, reform-driven ally in the Balkans—making it a strategic partner for the United States in advancing regional security, democratic governance, and economic development. This dual alignment defines the bilateral relationship, enabling the U.S. to leverage NATO ties for defense cooperation, support EU-aligned reforms to promote transparency and the rule of law, and foster trade, investment, and innovation through shared standards.
For American companies seeking access to the EU market, Montenegro offers a gateway to Europe, with opportunities not only in defense, but also in infrastructure, energy, science, and innovations.
What common regional goals have you identified with the U.S., especially regarding stability and economic development in the Western Balkans?
Montenegro and the United States share key regional objectives in the Western Balkans: promoting democratic governance, advancing European Union integration, and fostering sustainable economic development. These shared goals align Montenegro’s strategic vision with U.S. priorities for a stable, prosperous, and Euro-Atlantic-oriented region.
Montenegro’s NATO membership since 2017 positions it as a security anchor in Southeast Europe. The United States views Montenegro’s EU accession path as a stabilizing force, encouraging other Western Balkan nations to pursue similar trajectories.
Both countries remain committed to countering destabilizing external influences—particularly through energy diversification, cybersecurity, and strategic communication. U.S. diplomatic engagement consistently emphasizes support for Balkan sovereignty and democratic aspirations.
We share a belief that the Western Balkans can become a region of peace and progress. Together, we advocate for democratic governance rooted in transparency, accountability, and institutional resilience. We defend sovereignty and stability, and we pursue economic development where infrastructure, energy, and innovation connect our people, empower our youth, and foster regional cooperation.
How do you leverage Montenegro’s culture and heritage in strengthening diplomatic and public ties in the U.S.?
It is culture that reminds us of our shared humanity. Montenegro is a land of striking contrasts and millennial continuity. Diplomatic and public ties can be deepened by showcasing its rich cultural heritage through cultural diplomacy — leveraging art, music, history, and academic exchange to foster mutual understanding and strengthen strategic partnerships.
Cultural events offer Americans the opportunity to see Montenegro not only as a partner, but as a place of dignity and beauty. Through partnerships with universities and cultural institutions, we ensure that Montenegro’s voice resonates in concert halls, classrooms, and research institutes.
We look forward to organizing Montenegrin Cultural Evenings in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the Kennedy Center and the Smithsonian, featuring exhibitions that highlight our cultural legacy. These events will engage diplomats, academics, and diaspora leaders, reinforcing Montenegro’s identity and global presence.
Diaspora engagement plays a vital role in celebrating national days—particularly in New York, Chicago, and California—strengthening pride and cultural continuity. In collaboration with U.S. universities and research centers, we aim to develop joint projects in cultural studies and promote co-authored publications and exhibitions that explore Montenegro’s role as a cultural crossroads.
We look forward to securing sponsors for Montenegrin artists, poets, and scholars to participate in U.S. residencies, festivals, and academic conferences. Our young scholars serve as ambassadors of intellect and identity, embodying the spirit of Montenegro abroad.
As a country often described as a ‘jewel of Europe,’ we may propose launching a digital campaign—Montenegro: Where Mountains Meet the Sea—featuring short films designed to captivate younger audiences through visual narratives that showcase Montenegro’s natural splendor and historical depth.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for Montenegro’s role on the global stage during your tenure as Ambassador?
We may view Montenegro not as a country whose global role is defined by its size, but by its values. Its presence on the international stage can be understood through three key dimensions:
Firstly, Montenegro’s accession to the European Union and membership in NATO position it as a reliable partner in the Balkans, actively promoting peace, regional security, and democratic and economic development.
During the war in Yugoslavia in the late 1990s, Montenegro — widely recognized for its tradition of peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic and religious communities—offered refuge to over 100,000 displaced persons. This figure represented nearly 20% of its population at the time, an act of compassion unprecedented in modern European history.
With its favorable geographic location, mild climate, streamlined business registration process, stable banking system, equal treatment of domestic and foreign investors, and one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe, Montenegro offers a secure and attractive investment environment. Coupled with its EU integration efforts, the country stands as a bridge between East and West, North and South — connecting American companies with Southeast Europe, attracting credible investments, and contributing to the improvement of the regional business climate.
Secondly, the synergy of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, and cognitive sciences – combined with artificial intelligence, drones, robots and new materials – is poised to dramatically reshape civilization. In this context, for a small country like Montenegro to thrive amid rapid technological transformation, it must embrace a path of knowledge-based development. This requires intensified international cooperation in the fields of technology, innovation, green policies, science, and education.
In today’s world, true security stems only from knowledge, experience, and capability. Montenegro can demonstrate ambition in a global landscape that rewards innovation. Through its academic institutions, the country has the potential to become a vibrant hub for scientific collaboration, youth mentorship, and cultural diplomacy.
We look forward to secure funding for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers through bilateral agreements and active engagement with the diaspora. A more robust development of the high-tech sector would not only strengthen the economy and boost exports, but also elevate scientific literacy, enhance national expertise, raise the quality of higher education, and help mitigate the brain drain.
And lastly, the world is confronting profound ecological challenges, and the reform we urgently need is a shift from short-term thinking to long-term vision—one that equates economic constraints with natural ones. History teaches us that the health of soil and water, and the forests that safeguard them, form the only enduring foundation for the survival and prosperity of any civilization. If humanity intends to endure, it must live off nature’s interest, not its capital.
In this context, Montenegro can assume a role that transcends its economic, geographic, and demographic scale. As the first country to enshrine the concept of an “Ecological State” in its Constitution, Montenegro stands as the birthplace of a visionary model—a global pilot project and a living example of sustainable society.
Though small in size, Montenegro is remarkably diverse, blessed with pristine natural beauty: towering mountains, crystalline lakes, deep canyons, and an azure coastline adorned with ancient towns that echo millennia of history. It is a sanctuary of biodiversity, home to an extraordinary array of plant and animal species.
At a time when the planet faces existential threats from environmental degradation, Montenegro can contribute meaningfully to the development of a global model for sustainable living. It can serve as a beacon of trust in human reason, offering a vision of society rooted in harmony with nature and guided by humanistic values.
