Islamabad: The Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina organized a screening of the film “Quo Vadis, Aida?” on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the Independence Day of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The film is not only a cinematic masterpiece, but a painful reminder of the genocide in Srebrenica, the worst atrocity on European soil since World War II. The screening was organized by the Embassy of Bosnia in cooperation with the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage at the PNCA Auditorium.
Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina H.E. Emin Cohodarevic in his opening speech expressed his opinion that in such solemn moments I consider it important to refer to the current state and perspective of bilateral relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
It is an undeniable fact that the relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan are special: in addition to the permanent bond, the continuous support that Pakistan provides to Bosnia and Herzegovina in its journey to preserve freedom and democracy. Our relations have extraordinary dynamics, they are constantly developing and diversifying. There is not a single area, be it political, defense, economic, cultural or social, where we are not able to set positive examples and good practices.
I am confident that the friendship between the people of the two countries and the bilateral relations between the two governments will continue to flourish and reach new heights.
At the heart of the story is Aida’s drama and her emotions. I would like you to take away the feelings and questions that the film raises. How many things would be different if we had more empathy and solidarity? Did this tragedy have to have such dire consequences?
Before concluding my speech, I would like to express my gratitude to the Pakistan National Arts Council for hosting us this evening, and also to Mr. Danish Iqbal, Honorary Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Lahore, Mr. Asad Saleem, Honorary Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Peshawar and Mr. Khawaja Abdul Ghani Majid, Honorary Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Karachi, who generously contributed to the success of tonight’s event.
Ambassador Cohodarevic thanked for the speeches of welcome and emphasized that during his mandate he will work to further develop and support the political, economic, educational and cultural ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
The PNCA General Directorate and the Ambassador of Bosnia witnessed the ceremony on the sidelines of the film screening. The screening was enjoyed by a packed house attended by a number of European Union dignitaries, African diplomats, civil society and media workers.
