Izetbegović: We Must Respond to New Threats to the State of BiH with Unity and Determination to Preserve Peace

(Patria) - President of the Party of Democratic Action (SDA) Bakir Izetbegović sent a congratulatory message to citizens of BiH at home and abroad on the occasion of March 1, Independence Day of BiH.

"On this day 33 years ago, the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina made a historic decision. In the referendum held on February 29 and March 1, 1992, the vast majority of citizens clearly stated that they want to live in a free, independent and sovereign BiH, a state of equal peoples and citizens.

That choice of freedom and independence did not come without resistance. A brutal aggression followed, and our people, led by patriotic forces, fought for survival and the right to live on their own land.

Bosnia and Herzegovina survived thanks to the determination of its sons and daughters, those who embedded the most valuable thing into the foundations of our freedom - their lives. We owe them eternal gratitude and respect.

Today, unfortunately, we are witnessing new threats and attempts to challenge what we have fought for and defended. The authorities of the RS entity openly deny the statehood of Bosnia and Herzegovina, undermine its institutions and call into question the sovereignty that we confirmed by plebiscite on March 1, 1992.

However, as before, the response must be unity and determination of all of us to preserve peace and everything that was won with the blood of the best sons and daughters of our homeland.

Special congratulations on this day go to the families of martyrs and fallen soldiers, who made the greatest sacrifice for our freedom. It is our duty to never forget their sacrifice and to never tire in the fight for a modern and strong state of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

To all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina at home and abroad, I heartily congratulate March 1, Independence Day of Bosnia and Herzegovina," Izetbegović said.