Michael Murphy, the United States (U.S.) Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), visited Jajce and delivered a clear message to the citizens of BiH.
Here is his message in full:
“Today we are in Jajce, a place that played an important role not only in medieval BiH but also in the history of the entire Balkans. Here, in the Franciscan Monastery in Jajce, you can visit the final resting place of the last medieval Bosnian king, Stjepan Tomasevic.
His wife, Queen Katarina, is buried in Rome, and this is what is remarkable about BiH. Its legacy, history, and influence extend far beyond the present borders of the country. Throughout my tenure, I have frequently encountered BiH while visiting places outside its borders.
In Dubrovnik, I saw the thousand-year-old Charter of Kulin Ban. In Hungary, in the city of Szekesfehervar, I visited the ossuary where the Bosnian Queen Elizabeth is interred. Her crown is in Zadar. Today, BiH citizens are entrepreneurs in Sweden, parliamentarians in Germany, and members of thriving communities across Europe.
I am often asked about the future of BiH. I think the answer is quite clear: BiH’s future lies where its past has always been – in Europe. BiH is now and has always been part of the transatlantic community of nations. My government is firmly committed to helping you secure membership in the institutions of that community so that you, your children, and your grandchildren can live in the peace, democracy, and prosperity you all deserve. Do not let your politicians take that away from you.
And if they try, hold them accountable. Finally, but no less importantly, visit Jajce. Jajce is a precious gem,” said Murphy in a video published yesterday by the U.S. Embassy in BiH.
