The Montenegrin government has begun fulfilling its pledge to become a hub for blockchain innovation by reportedly making Ethereum creator Vitalik Buterin its newest citizen.

Montenegrin news outlet RTCB reported that Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapić recommended Buterin receive the privilege to help the southeastern European nation promote its efforts to become a blockchain innovation hub.

There does not appear to be an official announcement, however this photo was reportedly shared by the Minister of Finance and Social Welfare Milojko Spajić when Buterin received his passport.

Montenegro hosted the Ethereum (ETH) co-founder on April 7 at the Future Now! panel discussion hosted by Minister Spajić. There, panelists Buterin, Ethereum researcher Vlad Zamfir, University of Memphis Professor of law Boris Mamlyk, and Minister Spajić spoke on the legality of blockchain identity, smart contracts in government, and other topics.

Budućnost Sad! Kripto zakon, inovacije, zajednicaPrilika za uspostavljanje zdrave, održive, blokčejn industrije u službi naroda.V.Buterin - osnivač ETHV.Zamfir - glavni istraživač ETHB.Mamlyk - internacionalni profesor pravaM.Spajić - moderatorhttps://t.co/PvBNeQi52n pic.twitter.com/X9WCNJz6eZ

In an April 4 meeting, Prime Minister Krivokapić, Buterin, and several other government officials also discussed Montenegro’s options in terms of the blockchain industry, as reported by local news outlet Mina. One important aspect brought up was how to regulate crypto for his citizens.

Minister Spajić stated that he wishes his country to be strict on criminals in the industry, but feels fairness would stimulate growth and “reduce the gray economy in all areas.” He added:

Montenegro’s government is now starting to dig