Mayor of Sarajevo Benjamina Karic, Mayor of Mostar Mario Kordic, and Mayor of Banja Luka Drasko Stanivukovic wrote to the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
In a joint letter, the mayors of three cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) state that Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar are determined to cooperate and exchange experiences with the aim of creating an environment in which citizens will be satisfied.
”In the past year, we have shown that we can be partners with European cities in project activities and achieving goals in local development. City diplomacy is fast and efficient, and the interconnected connection of our friendly cities is a valuable resource for the transfer of knowledge and good practices,” the letter states.
They emphasize that the candidate status and membership of BiH in the European Union (EU) family provide great encouragement and inspiration to the cities in their sincere desire and interest.
”This is a message that is especially important to young people. They must have hope and faith in a better future. That is why it is very important to show them that they will have a chance for progress and success in their cities and country. This message is very important on the way to stability, democracy, prosperity, and all other values that are embodied and nurtured by the family of European cities and nations. We want to show and demonstrate to everyone that we are part of Europe and the world,” it is further stated in the letter.
