MONTENEGRO: JEWEL OF THE ADRIATIC

Chapter II
“BEAUTIFUL MONTENEGRO”

Narrator: Hello, my name is Frank Lama and I am a member of the US-Montenegro Business Council and it is my pleasure to bring to you this documentary entitled Montenegro: Jewel of the Adriatic. Charles Dillon, the Founding Director and President of the U.S. – Montenegro Business Council, Petar Ivanovic, the Chief Executive Officer of the Montenegrin Investment Promotion Agency, and I have produced this documentary to highlight the many business opportunities in Montenegro and the important role it can serve as a “gateway” for American businesses entering into the Balkans. Since Montenegro’s independence from Serbia in 2006, businesses from over 86 foreign nations have recognized the benefit this country offers in expanding their market share and increasing profits. While American businesses are traditionally underrepresented in Montenegro and the Balkans, business opportunities are still available for those American companies realizing one must search for any precious jewel.

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When first hearing of this beautiful Mediterranean country, many people ask “Where is Montenegro?” This small, but welcoming, Mediterranean country is part of the Balkans, and is a friendly neighbor to Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Macedonia, and Albania. As a Southern European and a Mediterranean country, it is only about a 45 minute flight from Rome, 2 hours from Paris, 1 hour 40 minutes from Frankfurt, 1 hour from Vienna, and 2 1/2 hours from London. Montenegro is in the very heart of Europe. Despite its small size there are many contrasts and so much natural beauty. Every view in Montenegro is like a picture from your dreams. While Montenegro is certainly one of the most beautiful spots in the world, it is only around 5,000 sq. miles – about the size of Connecticut - and only has about 670,000 citizens. Montenegro also has a very rich and significant history … one of national strength and honor, and challenges and victory … a history mysteriously unknown to many Americans until now. The culture of Montenegro is as fascinating as its geographical position and its history suggests. Culturally diverse, Montenegrins are accepting of all peoples and pride themselves on their free and democratic society. It is interesting to note that its culture has been shaped by a variety of influences throughout history. The Orthodox, Slavonic, Central European, Islamic, and seafaring Adriatic cultures, such as the Republic of Venice, have been an important influence in recent centuries. Each culture has added a distinct and deep shine to this already beautiful Jewel. No where else on earth, in such a small area, will you find comparable natural beauty, mild beaches, crystal clear lakes, fast rivers, majestic mountains, and welcoming people – like you will find in Montenegro. Montenegro proves true the age old adage: “Great gifts come in small packages.”

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(C) Copyright 2009 by Charles T. Dillon