"This heinous and unacceptable act represents a direct attack not only on the diplomatic representation of a friendly country, but also on fundamental civilizational values, the culture of memory and the dignity of the victims of the most serious crimes committed on European soil after the Second World War," the ministry said.
As they pointed out, Montenegro unequivocally condemns any attempt to deny or relativize the genocide in Srebrenica, as well as to glorify war crimes and their perpetrators. Such actions are contrary to the policy of good neighborly relations and Montenegro's determination to contribute to regional reconciliation, stability and lasting peace.
"Citizens of Montenegro inherit European values, and we see this act as something that is in stark contrast to the fundamental principles on which our country rests," they added in their response.
They remind that the Parliament of Montenegro adopted the Resolution on the genocide in Srebrenica and that at the UN General Assembly, in May of last year, Montenegro unreservedly supported the adoption of the Resolution on Srebrenica, which, among other things, condemns acts that glorify persons convicted before international courts of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, including those responsible for the genocide in Srebrenica.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expects the competent authorities to urgently identify and prosecute the perpetrators of this act of vandalism, and to take all necessary measures to protect diplomatic and consular missions in accordance with Montenegro's international obligations," they added in their response.
The Ministry, they conclude, expresses full solidarity with the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Podgorica and the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a strong message that there is no place in Montenegro for hate speech, glorification of crimes and attacks on diplomatic missions.
