Ambassador Lagerlof: The Memorial Center does invaluable work, but I followed diplomatic protocol

(Patria) - Swedish Ambassador to BiH Helena Lagerlof spoke out on Tuesday evening regarding her visit to Srebrenica, and the Director of the Memorial Center, Emir Suljagić, cancelled her meeting because a visit to the Mayor of Srebrenica and genocide denier Mladen Grujičić was also planned.

The Ambassador still went to the Memorial Center and laid flowers, after which she proceeded to Grujičić. As she stated, that was the diplomatic protocol.

“The main goal of my visit was to pay tribute to the victims of the genocide in Srebrenica. The position of the Swedish government, as well as mine, on this issue is the same – we stand in solidarity with the victims, survivors, and families mourning their loved ones. The Swedish government and I personally are firmly convinced that all actions and statements that diminish or deny the genocide in Srebrenica are deeply disturbing and contrary to fundamental civilizational values. I would also convey this message to the staff of the Memorial Center in Potočari, as well as my deep gratitude for the invaluable work they do in research and documentation and for their contribution to preserving history and confronting the forces of ignorance and hatred that cause genocide. Unfortunately, our meeting was cancelled.

Even after that, I decided to go and pay tribute to the victims because I feel it is a human obligation, both as a diplomat and as a guest in this country.

My diplomatic protocol after visiting the cemetery included a meeting with representatives of the international community who have their field offices in Srebrenica, as well as with local elected political representatives. During these meetings, I reminded the officials of the purpose of my visit and their obligation to encourage processes of reconciliation, peace, and respect. I also called on them to commit to continuously working on building a better future for all people living in this area,” stated Lagerlof.