Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Statehood Day Marked with Students in Islamabad
Students at Iqra University in Islamabad joined the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina for a special celebration of the country’s Statehood Day. The event highlighted Bosnia’s commitment to democratic values, its aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration, and the growing friendship between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Pakistan. The screening of the acclaimed film “Quo Vadis, Aida?” and the televised message of President Dr. Denis Becirovic formed the centrepiece of the gathering, drawing strong engagement from students and faculty.
The ceremony was hosted at the Social Sciences Department of the university in collaboration with the media organisation “Pakistan in the World.” Ambassador Emin Čohodarević attended as the chief guest and received a warm welcome from Department Head Dr. Sheharyaar and the organisation’s Chief Executive, Tazeen Akhtar. Students filled the auditorium, showing keen interest in the discussions on Bosnia’s history, statehood and the lessons reflected in the featured film.
In his address screened at the event, President Dr. Denis Becirovic reaffirmed Bosnia and Herzegovina’s strategic direction, emphasising the nation’s future within the European Union and NATO. He added that the country needs leaders committed to building a democratic and peaceful future, rooted in human rights, civil liberties, unity and tolerance. He stressed that Statehood Day renews a dedication to protecting these values and resisting forces that threaten social harmony.
Addressing the audience, Ambassador Čohodarević expressed gratitude to Iqra University for hosting the celebration and praised the students’ energy and potential. He noted that interacting with young Pakistani scholars gave him confidence in the future of Pakistan and in the continued strengthening of Bosnia–Pakistan relations. The ambassador provided students with an overview of Bosnia’s Statehood Day, explaining its origins in the historic decision made in 1943 to restore the country’s statehood and affirm equal rights for all citizens.
The ambassador highlighted the enduring bond between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Pakistan, describing their relationship as one built on friendship, respect and shared understanding over the past three decades. He said that distance is no barrier to the connection between the two nations and that their relationship serves as a growing bridge of cooperation.
Explaining the significance of the film “Quo Vadis, Aida?”, the ambassador noted that it was deliberately chosen for the occasion because it portrays the deeply emotional human story behind the Srebrenica tragedy. He urged students to reflect on the themes of empathy, solidarity and the consequences of global inaction, encouraging them to consider how the world might change if such values were upheld more strongly.
Students actively participated in the discussion session and asked questions regarding Bosnia’s history, multicultural identity and democratic aspirations. The ambassador also toured the university and later met with Dr. Sheharyaar to discuss opportunities for academic collaboration between institutions in both countries, agreeing to continue exploring avenues for joint initiatives.
