Citizens Fatefully Determined BiH's Path on March 1

SARAJEVO, (Patria) – A ceremonial academy was held in Sarajevo's City Hall on the occasion of March 1, BiH Independence Day, with the performance of the BiH national anthem, attended by numerous guests from political, religious and social life of BiH and the diplomatic corps in BiH. Tribute was paid to all those who gave their lives for BiH and the defense of the country. Member of the BiH Presidency Šefik Džaferović said that March 1 has an irreplaceable significance in the history of BiH.

"The referendum on BiH independence represents an example of democratic practice that was conducted in accordance with all domestic and international norms in a transparent and peaceful manner with full international monitoring." 

With the decision of March 1, after centuries of foreign administrations and being part of state unions, BiH dignifiedly restored its sovereignty and international legal subjectivity. 

"It was also a strong NO to great-state policies in the process of the dissolution of the former common state, which at that time loomed over BiH and threatened the existence of BiH. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH represent a historical, political and legal fact that no one will ever be able to dispute. By casting their vote for independence, the people of this country fatefully determined BiH's path."  

Džaferović said that on the path to independence there were severe trials, the most difficult being the aggression against BiH, which we managed to overcome.

"The sacrifice with which freedom was dearly bought obliges us to persevere in preserving and strengthening BiH and the values on which it is founded. That is our permanent obligation towards the most honorable, bravest and best sons of BiH who defended and protected this country."

Džaferović emphasized that “new trials and difficulties lie ahead of us that need to be overcome”.

"The greatest source of these difficulties are destructive political forces that are now, in peacetime, trying to achieve their wartime goals. The idea and reality of sovereignty and territorial integrity remain a thorn in the side of these policies. 

Such assaults, says Džaferović, cause constant crises that hinder economic growth and prosperity.

"Political instability everywhere in the world drives away investors, including here. Our goal must remain to build here the orderly system that young people aspire to. After years of stagnation, progress towards the Euro-Atlantic path has finally been made. 
Destructive efforts and attempts to undermine the state bring no good to anyone."

Džaferović emphasized that progress requires eradicating discrimination and inequality, and that it is necessary for all political actors to stop negative rhetoric and turn to constructive dialogue.