Montenegro officially declares independence

MONTENEGRO: Montenegro has officially declared independence from Serbia, severing the final, frayed bond of the old Yugoslav federation.

At a special session of parliament on Saturday in its capital, Podgorica, Montenegro followed Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Macedonia in breaking away from Belgrade and embarking on a sovereign bid for membership of the EU and Nato. "The Republic of Montenegro is an independent state with full international and legal legitimacy within its existing borders," parliament speaker Ranko Krivokapic declared, reading out the proclamation that had been passed by the legislature.

"The citizens of Montenegro, once and for all, have brought back their country into the family of free nations and states," he added. "Long live Montenegro!" In front of parliament, four soldiers wearing old Montenegrin army uniform raised state flags bearing a two-headed golden eagle, and the national anthem was played.

As fireworks exploded in a rain-filled sky, hundreds of Montenegro's 650,000 people cheered and hailed prime minister Milo Djukanovic, the champion of the referendum that approved independence last month.

"This is the moment when new horizons open for my country," said painter Goran Novakovic (32). Student Danilo Radovic added: "I am extremely happy. The dream of generations of Montenegrins has been fulfilled."

No Serb leaders attended the independence ceremony, but president Boris Tadic sent a message wishing Montenegro "peace, stability and prosperity" on its way to European integration. "On that road, as always in our history, Serbia will be the closest friend," Mr Tadic insisted.