Italy reaffirmed its unwavering support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations, while celebrating the deep historical, political, economic and cultural ties between the two countries during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Italian Republic Day.
Speaking at the celebration of Italy’s National Day, Ambassador Sarah Eti Castellani addressed dignitaries, diplomats, political representatives and guests, using the occasion not only to commemorate a pivotal moment in Italian history but also to underline Italy’s continued engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans region.
The ambassador recalled the historic referendum of June 2, 1946, when Italians voted to replace the monarchy with a republic, describing it as a defining moment that shaped modern Italy.
“For the first time, women were among those called to vote,” Castellani noted, emphasizing that the birth of the Italian Republic represented a choice for freedom, democracy, multilateralism and Euro-Atlantic integration in the aftermath of World War II.
She said the anniversary serves not only as an opportunity to reflect on the past but also on contemporary challenges facing Europe and the international community.
“In a difficult international context, Italy seeks to act as a force for stability and dialogue, both within the framework of the European Union and in the broader Mediterranean and Balkan region,” she said.
Strong Support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU Path
A central theme of the ambassador’s address was Italy’s strong backing of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European integration process.
Castellani encouraged political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina to focus on reforms necessary for advancing the country’s EU accession path and strengthening state institutions.
She stressed that progress requires determination, political responsibility and a willingness to reach compromises in the interest of future generations.
“Citizens believe in this path. They want to join the European Union for a future built on prosperity, opportunity, the rule of law and freedom. We stand with them, and we always will,” she said.
The ambassador also reiterated Italy’s support for dialogue among domestic political actors and for the work of High Representative Christian Schmidt in implementing the 5+2 Agenda and safeguarding the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Taking the opportunity to acknowledge Schmidt’s contribution, she thanked him for what she described as his extraordinary commitment over the past five years.
Italy, she added, remains firmly committed to the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
That support is also reflected through Italy’s contribution to the EUFOR Althea mission, whose command has returned to Italy this year. Castellani extended special greetings to EUFOR Commander General Maurizio Fronda and thanked Italian military personnel serving in the country.
Historic Friendship Beyond Politics
Throughout her speech, the ambassador highlighted the strong bonds between the peoples of Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing that the relationship extends beyond political cooperation.
She paid tribute to the historic Italian communities in Tuzla, Stivor and Banja Luka, as well as Italian citizens living throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. She also thanked students of the Italian language, describing them as builders of bridges of friendship, dialogue and mutual understanding.
Sport featured prominently in her remarks as an example of the close relationship between the two nations.
Referring to the recent football match between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica, Castellani congratulated the Bosnian team on its victory, saying that while Italians were disappointed by the result, Bosnian joy was “our greatest comfort.”
She also recalled the historic match played on November 6, 1996, at Sarajevo’s Koševo Stadium, the first match played by Bosnia and Herzegovina’s national football team after the war.
“It was a gesture of friendship, solidarity and hope, and one of the first major international sporting events in post-war Sarajevo,” she said.
The ambassador shared messages received through social media ahead of the Zenica match, many of which expressed gratitude for Italy’s support during Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most difficult years.
One message stated: “True respect cannot be imposed; it must be earned. And Italy has earned it because it stood by our side when we needed it most.”
Another read: “Thank you, Italy. You were our friends in the most difficult times.”
Castellani said such sentiments demonstrate a genuine connection rooted in shared history, cultural ties and mutual respect.
She also linked the friendship between the two countries to sport and the Olympic movement, noting that Italy recently hosted the Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina while sharing with Sarajevo the legacy of the 1984 Winter Olympics.
Italy’s Economic Presence Remains Strong
The ambassador highlighted the significant economic partnership between the two countries, noting that Italy remains Bosnia and Herzegovina’s leading supplier and second-largest trading partner.
Annual bilateral trade currently amounts to approximately €2.7 billion, while Italian companies operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina employ more than 13,000 workers.
“Italy has always been here,” Castellani said, recalling comments made by Bosnian citizens ahead of the match in Zenica. “And it still is today: politically, economically, culturally and through development cooperation.”
She emphasized that Italy remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s development through numerous projects and initiatives.
More Than €9 Million for Development Cooperation
According to the ambassador, Italy allocated more than €9 million in development assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina during 2025.
The funds support a wide range of sectors, including migration management, agriculture, sustainable tourism, ethnic reconciliation initiatives and humanitarian response efforts.
Among the projects receiving support, Castellani singled out the construction of the Ars Aevi Museum of Contemporary Art in Sarajevo, one of the most ambitious cultural projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The museum, designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, has strong Italian roots, with some of its first artworks originating from Italy.
Announcing a major milestone, the ambassador revealed that UNESCO has approved the contract with the selected construction company and that construction work is expected to begin in the coming days.
“This is a project we are proud to support, convinced that culture and architecture can become tools for urban regeneration, inclusiveness and dialogue,” she said.
She thanked UNESCO, the European Union, the Canton of Sarajevo, the City of Sarajevo, the Municipality of Novo Sarajevo and all other partners involved in bringing the project to fruition.
Celebrating Italian Culture and Cuisine
The celebration also showcased Italy’s cultural heritage through a performance by the Tuscan musical group Musica da Ripostiglio and a reception featuring Italian culinary specialties.
Castellani noted with pride that UNESCO recently recognized Italian cuisine as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making it the first national cuisine to receive recognition in its entirety rather than for a specific dish or culinary tradition.
The ambassador concluded by thanking the staff of the Italian Embassy, sponsors Intesa Sanpaolo Banka, UniCredit, Manuel Cafè and Auto Centar Italy for their support in promoting Italy and strengthening bilateral relations.
Ending her speech with a message of friendship and optimism, Castellani declared:
“Long live Italy! Long live Bosnia and Herzegovina! Long live the friendship between our peoples and… Good luck, Dragons!”
