On Tuesday evening, Sarajevo Times and Green Home Construction hosted an Iftar dinner for members of the diplomatic corps in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, Sarajevo. The event aimed to foster unity, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding in the spirit of Ramadan.
Zejna Yesilyurt, founder of Sarajevo Times and Editor-in-Chief, delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the significance of the meal beyond just food. “This meal represents more than just food; it is a powerful symbol of unity, respect, and the strength of community,” she said, highlighting the importance of gatherings like this in promoting a deeper sense of shared humanity.
In her speech, Yesilyurt reflected on the diverse cultural and religious makeup of Sarajevo, which is often referred to as the “Jerusalem of Europe.” She noted, “Sarajevo exemplifies the power of coexistence. Here, we understand that unity is not simply an ideal; it is an essential foundation for our collective progress.”
Yesilyurt also touched on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s painful history of division, yet stressed the resilience of its people in overcoming the destructive effects of hatred.
“We have witnessed the resilience of our people–their ability to come together, rebuild, heal, and move forward,” she said, concluding with a call for continued efforts to build bridges and cultivate understanding for a more harmonious future.
Selcuk Yesilyurt, owner and general director of Green Home Construction, also addressed the guests, emphasizing the significance of cultural diversity in both the social and business spheres.
“For us businesspeople, the most valuable markets are those that bring together individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Such environments foster both diversity and profitability,” he remarked, underscoring the economic and social benefits of multicultural cooperation.
Selcuk Yesilyurt further praised Sarajevo as a model of peaceful coexistence despite the hardships it has faced throughout its history. “Sarajevo, the ‘Jerusalem of Europe,’ is a prime example of a place that has preserved this precious social coexistence,” he said, reinforcing the city’s role as a beacon of diversity and harmony.
The dinner, which brought together distinguished diplomats from 25 different nations and representatives from the three major religions, was organized with the aim of strengthening ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the international community. It served as a symbol of solidarity, respect for diversity, and a commitment to mutual understanding and cooperation.
Among the distinguished guests were the High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina Christian Schmidt and his spouse Dr. Ria Schmidt, as well as ambassadors from various countries including Sweden, Slovenia, Spain, Slovakia, Japan, Norway, Italy, Romania, Denmark, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Egypt, along with their respective diplomats and representatives.
Both Zejna and Selcuk Yesilyurt expressed their gratitude to the heads of diplomatic missions for their presence and respect, emphasizing the importance of furthering Bosnia and Herzegovina’s international relationships and cooperation.
