33 Years Ago, Canada Recognized the Independent Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina

(Patria) - Canada recognized the Republic of BiH on April 7, 1992, and diplomatic relations were established on December 14, 1995, reminds the Institute for Research of Genocide Canada.

The decision of the Government of Canada to recognize the Republic of BiH was announced by Barbara McDougal, then Minister of Foreign Affairs.

"Canada recognizes the independence of the Republic of BiH as of today. Canada particularly supports the determination of the Republic of BiH to adhere to international provisions on human rights and freedoms. Canada calls for an immediate cessation of aggression against the Republic of BiH”.

Canada continuously supports the territorial integrity, independence, sovereignty, and legal-political subjectivity of the state of BiH.

Canadian cities, provinces, territories, and the federal government continuously mark BiH Statehood Day and Independence Day.

Canada, by a unanimously adopted Resolution of Parliament in 2010, declared July 11th as Canadian Memorial Day for the Victims of Genocide in Srebrenica.

Canada, by a unanimously adopted resolution of Parliament in 2015, included the Srebrenica Genocide as part of the "Month of Remembrance, Condemnation, and Awareness of Genocide" every April.

In 2024, Canada was one of the first sponsors of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution declaring July 11th as the International Day of Reflection and Remembrance of the 1995 Srebrenica Genocide.

"On the occasion of the 33rd anniversary of Canada's recognition of the independence of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian state, we state that we will never allow the true Bosnian-Herzegovinian values that have strengthened us and made us proud, even in Canada, to be forgotten. Canada is the best proof that a successful BiH exists outside of BiH. Our children growing up in Canada are learning that there is a proud and defiant country, BiH, their homeland, which should be loved, defended, and strengthened.

Canada has accepted the Bosnian-Herzegovinian community as a partner in the development of both Canada and BiH. We thank Canada, the Canadian people, and Canadian authorities and institutions for their correct attitude towards BiH citizens in Canada, for their political and material support to BiH. Canada is an important and developed country that is good to have alongside BiH," stated the IGK.