Europe Day: A reminder to reject politics of division and hatred that caused so much pain and destruction

(Patria) - The celebration of May 9 - Europe Day in BiH began tonight at the National Theatre in Sarajevo with a gala concert by renowned domestic and European music greats.

A welcome to guests, representatives of BiH authorities, public and cultural life, and the diplomatic corps in BiH was extended by the Head of the EU Delegation to BiH and EU Special Representative in BiH, Ambassador Johann Sattler, who emphasized the importance of celebrating Europe Day in BiH.

- We are jointly celebrating Europe Day and all that this day represents. We are also celebrating the 20th anniversary of the accession of 10 new member states, and of course, we are celebrating the fact that BiH has kept pace with the rest of the European continent - Sattler said, Fena reports.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, he stressed, has always been at the heart of Europe.



- Culture, history, and geography connect us. We will also be connected within the European Union, a political community of equal members promoting peace, progress, and the protection of human rights.

By giving the green light for accession negotiations, the EU has sent a clear message that enlargement is current and that your future is in the EU.

All domestic political actors in BiH have committed to the European future of the country, but they often still lack a common vision of what that future looks like.



Recent challenges are another example, but I assure you that Bosnia and Herzegovina will overcome this episode as well. And the EU will continue to stand by the country and all those who work for its brighter future.

Europe Day is not just a celebration, but also a reminder to reject politics of division and hatred that caused so much pain and destruction - Sattler stated.

Given that Belgium currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU, the Belgian Ambassador to BiH Benjamin Sturtewagen told the guests that BiH faces numerous challenges, but that the assistance of EU member states is guaranteed.



He emphasized that the long-term perspective must remain the focus of efforts.

- It is possible, it is what we want. For the Union, for you, for your citizens. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe is calling you - Ambassador Sturtewagen said.

Numerous citizens and guests of Sarajevo had the opportunity tonight to follow the concert live on LED screens in Susan Sontag Square in front of the National Theatre building.

The European Union Delegation to BiH, along with numerous partners and citizens, is celebrating BiH's potential through a rich and diverse program for the celebration of Europe Day 2024 in BiH.



Beethoven's 9th Symphony was performed at the gala concert, conducted by Jan Caeyers, featuring the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Opera Choir of the National Theatre, Rocio Faus (soprano from Spain), Magdalena Pluta (mezzo-soprano from Poland), Amir Saračević (tenor from BiH), Daniel Čapkovič (baritone from Slovakia), and the mixed choir Camerata Slovenica from Slovenia.