US Ambassador to BiH Michael Murphy visited Mrkonjić City today, where the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the RS has banned the celebration of BiH Statehood Day.
“Greetings from Mrkonjić City. I am standing in front of the building where, on November 25, 1943, ZAVNOBiH councilors confirmed the continuity of the statehood of Bosnia and Herzegovina and adopted a declaration confirming the citizens’ determination that Bosnia and Herzegovina, I quote, ‘is neither Serbian nor Croatian , nor Muslim – but it is also Serbian, Croatian and Muslim.’ The declaration clearly states that the country does not belong to just one group or ethnic group, but belongs to every citizen of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Murphy.
This place, like many other places in Bosnia and Herzegovina, bears witness to the rich and impressive history of this country. Bosnia and Herzegovina is woven from different cultures, traditions and experiences, which produced something unique in the heart of the Western Balkans and Europe, said Murphy.
“That common past is a bridge to the common future of all citizens of BiH, a future in which BiH is surely anchored in the Euro-Atlantic community of countries and its institutions, where it belongs,” he pointed out.
He emphasized the permanent commitment of the United States of America to BiH and its sovereignty, territorial integrity and multi-ethnic character.
The United States will be with you, with Bosnia and Herzegovina, now and always, as you work to build a peaceful, secure and prosperous future for all, he said.
