Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, fellow speakers, and representatives of the diplomatic corps. Thank you to the organizers of this event for this opportunity to speak to you about the relationship between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Let me start by making a few observations specific to Bosnia and Herzegovina before …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 22 May, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Dear MDDC friends, distinguished colleagues, Minister Bosnjak, Ambassador Fitchen, Mayor Karic, I am very pleased to be here tonight to mark the Mine Detection Dog Center’s 20th anniversary. As some of you may know, the United States helped establish the Mine Detection Dog Center for Southeast Europe in 2003, right here in Bosnia and Herzegovina …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 18 May, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good morning. Thank you to everyone for being here today, especially the mayors for demonstrating your commitment to putting your citizens first. Your presence and partnership are an example for all government officials in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I have the honor of launching the U.S. government’s new Local Governance Assistance Activity. This project will invest …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 16 May, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good morning. I would like to welcome to Sarajevo our partners and the journalists from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as from Serbia, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro, who have traveled here for the BMAP Forward Annual Media Forum. The United States supports freedom of speech, freedom of press, and independent media around …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 10 May, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good morning, and welcome to Neum. I am pleased to be back here for the 2023 BiH Energy Summit. Thank you to our summit partners, and to everyone here, for joining us to focus on the critical issue of energy sector reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Since the United States organized the first BiH Energy …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 26 April, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good morning. It is an honor to be able to join the head of the Sarajevo Anti-Corruption Office, Dr. Erduan Kafedzic, and Ambassador Reilly and Ambassador Sattler, to mark 100 days since the Sarajevo Law on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption went into effect. It is nothing new for me to stand on a stage …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 25 April, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Speeches
It is a pleasure to welcome you to Sarajevo once again. Thank you for being here. Yesterday was the casual reception, where I hope you established new relationships with regional, U.S., and international counterparts, or perhaps renewed old ones. Today, we get down to business. We are here today to find ways to support one …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 April, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
It’s an honor to be with you today for the release of a video that will show what can happen when officials disregard regulations and a lack of oversight leads to environmental degradation. The video raises important questions about how permits are approved and why environmental standards that are supposed to protect citizens are so …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 30 March, 2023 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Events, Speeches
Good morning. Thank you, Nedim, for the introduction, and thank you, AmCham BiH, for organizing the first of what I hope will become a series of robust, regular, and ongoing dialogues between private sector leaders and public officials in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Dialogue between the public and private sectors is essential to accelerating the economic …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 29 March, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good afternoon, distinguished guests, representatives of the media and the diplomatic corps. I would like to thank the organizers for inviting me to speak at this solemn, yet inspiring event. Today marks one year since Russia launched its brutal, unprovoked, and illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia’s horrifying violence has killed thousands. It is a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 28 February, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, U.S. & Bosnia and Herzegovina
Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all here today to launch the United States’ Diaspora Invest Project. I would like to extend a warm welcome to members of the diaspora from Bosnia and Herzegovina who are with us today and others joining us virtually from across the globe. The diaspora is …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 February, 2023 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, U.S. & Bosnia and Herzegovina
Good Morning. It is truly a pleasure to be here today for an event we have all been anticipating for a long time – the official opening of KFC in Bosnia and Herzegovina! The arrival of KFC to BiH is a visible symbol to the rest of the world that this country is open for …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 15 December, 2022 | Topics: Business, Deputy Chief of Mission, Events, Speeches | Tags: KFC
I am delighted to be here today to mark the closing of a seven-year conservation and renovation project at the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, funded in part by two large grants totaling over $1 million from the United States’ Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (or AFCP). Since 2001, the United States, through the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 12 December, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, U.S. & Bosnia and Herzegovina | Tags: AFCP, National Museum BiH
Hotel Europe, Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 9:45 am Thank you, Transparency International BiH, for the invitation to speak to you all on International Anti-Corruption Day. Since my arrival in February of this year, I have talked candidly and frequently about the negative impacts – on almost every aspect of society – of this …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 1 December, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches | Tags: Corruption
December 1, 2022 Since its formation, the Armed Forces of BiH has served with distinction and honor at home and abroad. Its contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations across Africa solidified its reputation as a professional military capable of operating in complex environments. The Armed Forces of BiH represent the best of the people …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 1 December, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, U.S. & Bosnia and Herzegovina, Video | Tags: partnership, USAinBiH
Hello, I am sorry to miss being with you in person today, but I am excited to welcome you all to the NetWork 10 Conference. I would like to thank the conference organizers for bringing everyone together to discuss the future of IT and digital transformation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The United States supports the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 27 October, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, Video
Good afternoon and thank you for inviting me to speak with you today. I am grateful that we can get together in person this year. I always appreciate the opportunity to engage with AmCham members who are doing so much to improve the business environment, create new jobs, and develop economic opportunities in Bosnia and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 October, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for your warm welcome. It is an honor to be here for today’s Journalism Academy Award Ceremony. I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations not only to those who received awards today, but to all of you participating in this program. I am looking forward to our discussion later, so …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 29 September, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen. Thank you for your warm welcome. It is an honor and privilege to be here for the tenth annual Investigative Journalism Awards Ceremony. I am here tonight to talk about heroes. To talk about those who do what is right no matter the cost. To talk about those who put …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 8 September, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
I would like to thank Coca-Cola HBC Adria for inviting me to participate in today’s event, especially General Manager Ruža Tomić Fontana. I also want to thank Coca-Cola for being such a strong partner to the U.S. Mission in BiH over the past 25 years. I am proud that Coca-Cola, a quintessential American brand, was …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 September, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Thank you all for joining me here tonight for our first in-person celebration of the United States’ Independence Day in three years! This celebration is particularly special to those of us who spend our lives representing the United States – because we are true believers – not just in the United States of America, but …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 1 July, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
Today’s commemoration reminds us that we need to shine a light on wartime sexual violence to support the survivors and defends human rights, and also to advance the safety, security, and prosperity of all people. The use of sexual violence in Ukraine today underscores that this heinous practice continues. The United States stands with the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 June, 2022 | Topics: Events, News, Speeches
June 10, 2022 It is an honor and a privilege to join you here today. I want to use this opportunity to underline the importance of a sustainable, independent, balanced, and fact-based media as one of the cornerstones, perhaps the cornerstone, of a prosperous, well-functioning democracy. This is important for any country in the world, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 10 June, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Thursday, June 9, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Thank you, Ambassador Sattler for the invitation to speak today and for the warm welcome. Commissioner Varehelyi, Minister Zadic, distinguished guests, colleagues, and especially the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is my honor to speak to you today to discuss implementation of the recommendations of the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 9 June, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Mayor Kordic, Speaker Maric, respected victims in war and heroes in peace, Mostar city councilors, ladies and gentlemen. The photo portraits of war victims presented here today prove to us that it is possible to transform personal pain into positive action, and in doing so, to promote peace and reconciliation. The horror of war leaves …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 31 May, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Speeches
I am grateful to the CEC for hosting Ambassador Kavalec and me today to discuss timely, free, fair, and transparent elections. They are the foundation of democracy, and for the people of this country, they are also right enshrined in Article II (2) of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s constitution. It would be unconstitutional, indeed it would …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 23 May, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches
Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us today for my first press conference. I would like to first share a few thoughts with you and then outline my priorities. Afterwards, I will be happy to take your questions. I am thrilled to be back in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is an honor to lead our …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 31 March, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, Speeches, U.S. & Bosnia and Herzegovina, Video | Tags: Ambassador, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Michael J. Murphy
Dobar dan, dobro došli u Neum. It is a pleasure to be here at today’s Energy Summit. I am happy to see so many legislative and executive authorities, energy sector stakeholders, and international community representatives in attendance. Thank you all for coming. Everywhere around the world, energy – particularly electricity – is the backbone of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 23 March, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good morning. I’m sorry I can’t be with you today in person in Mostar, but I’m delighted to be able to greet you virtually. Thank you to Professor Sanja Kapetanović, coordinator of the FIT coding challenge, and Dr. Nina Bijedić, Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology and also an alumna of our Fulbright program and to all at the University “Džemal Bijedić” for …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 June, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Dobro jutro. Pozdravljam sve prisutne. Ambassador Sattler, gospodine Blagovčanin, i poštovani gosti. It is my pleasure to address you today and discuss the critical work that Transparency International and other civil society organizations are undertaking to improve this country’s elections. Transparent, free, and fair elections are at the heart of every functioning democracy. Elections give …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 21 May, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Dobar Dan! Today is World Press Freedom Day. Today we honor media professionals for the risks they take to keep us informed. Journalists are true public servants, and their search for the truth directly contributes to the public good. World Press Freedom Day calls our attention to governments’ responsibility to support press freedom and create an environment in which media can …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 May, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
(as prepared) Thank you, Deputy Minister Brkic, and to NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana, my fellow panelists, and the other participants. We are all here because we share the common goal of seeing Bosnia and Herzegovina move forward on its Euro-Atlantic path and demonstrating to all its citizens that their children can build a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 18 March, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobro jutro članovima Programa BOLD! And congratulations on being selected for our second BOLD Action Workshop on Economic Development. I am sorry I can’t be there with you but I want you to know that I applaud your ideas! They are what has qualified you for this workshop and we look forward to seeing you bring them to fruition. Thank you for your willingness …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 15 March, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Today’s signing marks a significant step in BiH’s progress fighting corruption. Corruption is a cancer on democracy. It causes significant pain to citizens and blocks BiH’s European aspirations. There is too little interest from BiH’s governments to address corruption, and so I applaud Acting Prime Minister Basić and his government for committing to create a new Anti-Corruption Office in Zenica-Doboj Canton. Our assistance will copy the model of Kanton Sarajevo’s Anti-Corruption Office, led by Dr. Erduan Kafedžić. U.S. assistance will be conditioned on political support from the government to give the office the freedom …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 10 March, 2021 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Ambassador Strömquist, distinguished hosts from Transparency International BiH, guests from other Balkan countries, representatives of civil society. I am honored to be part of this conference. We continue to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, which was on December 9, as it merits special attention in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Corruption has perhaps never been more visible as …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 8 December, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Good afternoon to students, parents, educators, and education officials across BiH. There is a direct correlation between the success of a country and the quality of its education system. Every country including BiH is facing an increasingly complex world and it is important for education systems to continuously adapt and improve so that the next generation will be equipped with the functional knowledge required to compete in a rapidly changing world. We now …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 December, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Thank you Ambassador Kavalec, and welcome Ambassador Sattler. Also welcome to the everyone listening and taking part in this important discussion. An effective judicial system that combats corruption is fundamental to to BiH’s Euro-Atlantic integration. Year after year, various levels of the judicial system are failing. The justice sector and law enforcement are controlled more …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 23 November, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
I am delighted to welcome you all to this important event and want to thank the East-West Bridge and Mr Robert Jovanović and his team for organizing this conference and the six workshops that preceded it. I am pleased that East-West Bridge and participants in this event have decided to mark the 25th Anniversary of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 20 November, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobar dan. On behalf of the United States Embassy, I would like to thank the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United States Air Forces in Europe for your efforts to plan, coordinate, and execute this first of its kind joint exercise between our two nations. The exercise builds our ability to function …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 November, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Distinguished guests, I am honored to be involved in this important event to raise awareness and highlight best practices to combat fraud. You all know better than I that fraud and corruption are rampant in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Just last week, Transparency International presented preliminary findings on misuse of public funds by BiH political parties …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 17 November, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Zdravo svim učenicima i edukatorima i onima koji se obrazuju cijeli život! Welcome to International Education Week 2020! International Education Week celebrates the importance and benefits of international education in the U.S. and around the world. Today, IEW is celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide. EducationUSA and the Embassy, and our partner American Councils …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 16 November, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
On behalf of the US Embassy, it’s a pleasure to salute everyone participating in Eco-Challenge this year. The U.S. Embassy is proud to have the NGO, Ruke, as our partner in this effort. They have done an excellent job of providing a platform for 134 teams and over 5,000 volunteers so far, who are making …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 9 October, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
On behalf of the US Embassy, it’s a pleasure to salute everyone participating in and supporting the 23rd Annual Project Citizen Finals. The U.S. Embassy has supported civic education in BiH with the Civitas team for more than two decades. Our goal is inspiring young people across BiH to work for positive change in their …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 30 September, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Dobar dan svima! Its a pleasure to greet everyone participating today in Race for the Cure 2020. I remember fondly a beautiful sunny Sunday last year when we were together for Race for the Cure 2019. And I regret we are not together today in person. The US Embassy has been supporting Race for the Cure for five years because we believe it is important to bring people together around a common cause and create …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 25 September, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches, Video
Minister Podžić, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen… Today we commemorate the passing and honor the memory of Ambassador Robert Frasure, Doctor Joe Kruzel, Colonel Nelson Drew, and French Army Corporal Stefan Raoult. It has been twenty-five years since these four brave men, dedicated to finding a path to peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, lost their …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 August, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you, Vedran and INTERA Technology Park for organizing this event. To the BiH diaspora members who are with us online, I want to extend a special warm welcome. Despite the inability to travel and enjoy the beautiful Herzegovina landscape and food, your online presence is a clear indication of your strong commitment to developing …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 28 July, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
It is a great pleasure to welcome all of you here today! I am encouraged to see such a large number of prosecutors who, by coming to this event, have shown readiness and determination to fight corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina with all the means that they possess as individuals exercising important official powers. The …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 11 March, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you Senita for inviting me to join this event tonight. It’s an honor to be among so many people who are committed to supporting a better future for young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In my travels across BiH, I quickly came to the conclusion that the country’s greatest resource is not its rivers …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 March, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Hello everyone! It’s wonderful to see you all here and to get a chance to meet some more BOLD members. First, I want to thank our wonderful partners here at VII Academy. I’ve talked a lot with Ron and Gary about their goals with this initiative and we know we have found a great partner …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 21 February, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobro jutro! Good morning everyone. It is wonderful to be here at our American Corner in Mostar. I want to express my appreciation to the excellent staff here who do a great job of reaching out to this community and providing opportunities to the people of Mostar. I also want to thank Minister Hadzović for …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 24 January, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
It is a pleasure for me to have the opportunity to mark this major milestone for Lieutenant Colonel Shea and his family. Making it to Lieutenant Colonel is the mark of a successful career. Many officers never make it that far. Fewer still are selected to promotion to Colonel. The promotion we are about to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 15 January, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Americans tend to take for granted the diversity we experience throughout our lives. From our first day of primary school, we attend classes with students of different races, nationalities, and religions. As we watch each other play on the same playground and struggle with the same schoolwork, we learn that we are similar in so …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 17 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
It is always a pleasure to visit Banja Luka, particularly when I have the opportunity to mark a step forward in our partnership. Today, I am here to celebrate the award of 255,000 KM from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation to the Museum of Contemporary Modern Art of Republika Srpska. The U.S. Embassy …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 17 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good afternoon, everyone! We have much to celebrate today. We honor this year’s graduates of the Access English program, and welcome our newly selected students as they launch into their two-year Access journey. Thank you to all the parents in the room, who have traveled from, Tuzla, Travnik, Visoko, and Busovača. You can all be …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 14 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Citizens around Sarajevo have seen and heard UH-1H Huey helicopters flying in and out of their base at Rajlovac for two decades. They have flown for many reasons, always ready to help the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Whether fighting forest fires, conducting flood relief, or providing life-saving medical evacuation, the Armed Forces of Bosnia …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 13 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Ambassador Sattler, Director Salčin, distinguished guests from civil society. It is my honor to be with you here and to be part of this conference. Let me begin by saying that I am glad this event was organized jointly by the Public Procurement Agency and civil society. This shows a great level of trust and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 11 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Izuzetno sam sretan što sam danas ovdje kako bih najavio drugu fazu financijske podrške za Zemaljski muzej. It’s especially gratifying to be able to announce this grant only six months after celebrating the completion of the first phase of this project to preventatively conserve the important collections of the National Museum. This grant of over …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 10 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
I am honored to address all of you at the opening session of this important conference. The theme of the conference is fraud awareness, but all of us are already aware of how pervasive fraud and corruption is in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fortunately, the conference panels go well beyond awareness to talk about preventing, combatting, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 18 November, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
It is a pleasure for me to be standing inside/in front-of a high school named after someone who was so important to both U.S. history and your history, Nikola Tesla. In my travels I have seen numerous schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina that carry Nikola Tesla’s name, a name that connects our two peoples. He …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 14 November, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you Prime Minister Forto. The U.S. government and the people of the United States are committed to a secure, prosperous, united and confident future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Jorgan Andrews’ presence here today is one more example of that commitment. For this country to take its place among the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 November, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Hvala Monika! Dobar dan svima. Thank you very much for inviting me to be with you here today. I understand that this is the first of three conferences, and I can see that you are off to a great start. In my job, I often meet with politicians and business leaders, but my favorite group …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 October, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
It is my pleasure to celebrate today a ten year partnership between USAID and the Embassy of Sweden. Our FARMA project has helped BiH farmers become more competitive and integrated with EU markets. We’ve helped them improve quality standards, increase exports and sales, create jobs in rural areas. I congratulate the state Ministry of Foreign …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 October, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good afternoon, thank you for inviting me to speak with you today. I am pleased to have this opportunity to engage directly with members and prospective members of the American Chamber of Commerce. I understand how busy you all are and greatly appreciate the time you dedicated to attending this luncheon, so I will keep …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 30 September, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good Morning everyone. Thank you to the children and representatives of Jezero, Jajce and Mrkonjić Grad for the warm welcome. Today in Jezero, along the beautiful Pliva River, I’m delighted to see the youth, inspired by our April Earth Day Celebration, returning to celebrate our future through Jezero’s connection with NASA and the Mars landing …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 23 September, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the process of accounting for missing persons has been a remarkable success, more than 74 per cent of the 31,000 people who were missing at the end of the conflict have been found using a modern, rights-based, rule-of-law approach. However, more than 7,000 persons remain unaccounted for. Their families live in …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 30 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
LTG Masovic, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen… Today we remember and honor the memories of four brave men who tragically passed away twenty-four years ago in the service of their countries. Ambassador Robert Frasure, Doctor Joe Kruzel, and Colonel Nelson Drew, along with French Army Corporal Stefan Raoult perished while seeking an elusive peace to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 20 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Prime Minister Forto, ladies and gentlemen. I extend a special warm welcome to the Bosnian diaspora attending this event. Your presence is a clear indication of your strong commitment to developing your homeland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the land you still love. I am excited to be here at Reconnect 2019, the fourth edition of this …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 15 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
As we heard in the opening presentation, we expect that results from the PISA process will become a vital proof-point and guide for needed education reform in BiH. But explaining it to the broader audience without provoking a defensive response will require that we all speak with one voice. The International Community supports the common …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 9 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Minister Pendeš, Deputy Minister Jusić, General Mašović, General Jerkić, General Knežević, officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for attending today’s ceremony. I am so happy to join you today to celebrate another advance for the AFBiH. These twenty Humvees represent a tiny fraction of a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
President Komšić, President Džaferovic, honored guests and dear friends, welcome. Every July 4th, we celebrate the values that launched our nation. As President Trump states in our National Security Strategy, “Liberty, free enterprise, equal justice under the law, and the dignity of every human life are central to who we are as a people. We …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 2 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
On behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo, good afternoon and welcome to this cyber security presentation and executive seminar with Cisco Systems. The Embassy is proud to support U.S. companies like Cisco, which deliver high-quality information-technology products to BiH businesses and government ministries. We are always looking for opportunities to connect American companies with …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 11 June, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobro jutro svima. Hvala Majda i hvala načelniče Mašić na toploj dobrodošlici i važnim porukama. Drago mi je što sam danas ovdje sa grupom mladih političara koji su prava inspiracija. It is great to be in a room full of young people. You are always my favorite people to meet. Not only because you are …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 8 June, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Hello everyone, it’s great to be here and thank you to NDI for inviting me. · I’m glad to be opening this conference along with Robert Benjamin from NDI, who has spent so much time dedicated to this country and this region. · Takođe, radujem se da čujem danas člana Predsjedništva Šefika Džaferovića kako on …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 June, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobro veče i dobro došli u Sarajevo! Welcome to our reception this evening in honor of the American business delegation to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Annual Meeting. Welcome to the many business and government leaders from across Bosnia and Herzegovina who join us today, and welcome to the U.S. government delegation attending …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 May, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobar dan svima. It gives me great pleasure to be here today with you to celebrate the opening of the historic and beautiful Aladža Mosque. I am happy to see so many people gathered here today, people of all faiths who have come out to see the return of their Aladža. I am proud that, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 May, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you, Nina, and thank you to all the hardworking members of the Pod Lupom team for your relentless commitment to election transparency. Dobar dan svima. It is an honor to be here today. The theme of this meeting is critical for any country, but especially for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here, where you have elections …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 24 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Ambassador Berton, Mr. Bizel, Mr. Lakic, Mr. deSanctis, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: It is my pleasure to be here today to help call attention to the specter of corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as highlighted in the OSCE’s second assessment on monitoring of corruption trials in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Is there high-level corruption in …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you, Adnan. Good afternoon Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. It’s a pleasure to be here with you today. As many of you know, I am fairly new to Bosnia and Herzegovina. I am still getting to know the country and its people. But one thing I have already heard, over and over, is that …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 16 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Čast mi je što sam danas ovdje na obilježavanju Međunarodnog dana svjesnosti o opasnostima od mina. While most countries around the world mark this day abstractly, the sad truth is that the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina are well aware of the horrendous and tragic damage caused by landmines. Almost 25 years after the war, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good evening. I’m glad to have the chance to address you all at the Neum NetWork 9 Conference. I regret my travel schedule prevents me from being there in person. The IT sector is a fundamental part of the strength and success of the United States’ economy. It is a bright spot here in Bosnia …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 27 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Thank you, Peter, for that introduction and good evening to you all. It’s my great pleasure to be here tonight and finally have the chance to meet some of the incredible men and women working side-by-side with our USAID team to bring so many important developments and opportunities to the people of BiH. I started …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 21 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobar dan. Hvala što ste mi se danas pridružili. Nastaviću na engleskom jeziku kako vam ne bih parao uši. I have had a very informative and engaging start to my tenure in BiH. I’ve appreciated the warm welcome and am quickly starting to feel at home. I welcome this opportunity today to discuss the United …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Dobro jutro svima. Hvala vam Borislave na toploj dobrodošlici. Drago mi je što sam danas ovdje sa grupom mladih političara koji su prava inspiracija. Let me start by congratulating each of you for having been chosen to participate in the Advanced Leadership in Politics Institute’s training program – a program that the U.S. Embassy and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 6 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr. Dodik, it is a great honor for me to present my credentials to you today as U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina. I look forward to leading my government’s work here to advance prosperity, security, and respect for the rule of law benefitting all the citizens …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 February, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Ladies and Gentlemen, Presidents, Ministers, wonderful colleagues – First and foremost, I want to say Thank You to each and every one of you – for being here this evening, and for your partnership these last four years. I want to express my sincere appreciation … To those across the governments at all levels who …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 December, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Ambassador’s Remarks for the Air Monitor Launch Event, June 1 Ministers and Directors, fellow Ambassadors, distinguished guests and friends, good morning and thank you for coming today to help us celebrate the arrival and launch of our air monitoring equipment. We’re especially pleased to have with us today Tima Hanley, a Lead Physical Scientist …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 June, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Health Issues, Speeches
(as prepared) Secretary Greminger, Ambassadors, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: It’s my pleasure to be here today to help publicize the OSCE’s report on corruption trials. It’s important that we use this opportunity to talk about how corruption hurts everyone in BiH. Over the past year, the OSCE, using over $470,000 in funds donated by …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 22 February, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Thank you so much to Civitas for hosting me here in Neum, and to all of you, for partnering together on perhaps the most important challenge facing Bosnia and Herzegovina today. I addressed this conference two years ago, and many of us have worked very hard together during these two …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 19 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Presidency Chairman Ivanic, President Covic, President Izetbegovic, Ministers, Diplomatic Colleagues and distinguished guests, Dobro veče svima i dobro došli … to U.S. Embassy Sarajevo’s celebration of the 241st anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America! We’re trying a new approach this year, and I’m impressed by how many of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 July, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for joining us today in Banja Luka to discuss a sector of the economy that is vital to the success of Bosnia and Herzegovina – Agriculture. During my 27 year career in the Foreign Service, I have seen in countries ranging from Korea – where agriculture was …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 13 October, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
Chairman Zvizdic, Distinguished Ministers and Colleagues, Honored Guests — good evening. As the United States Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is an honor to host each of you for our Independence Day Celebration. Dobrodosli and welcome. I would like to give a special welcome to the 22 U.S.-affiliated businesses that contributed their support to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 30 June, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Hotel Terme Remarks Ambassador Maureen Cormack President Tegeltija, Director Suljagic, ministers, fellow ambassadors, judges and prosecutors, distinguished guests: A decade ago, when USAID first piloted the Case Management System in six Bosnian courts, there was widespread skepticism as to whether it would be adopted and used. While not a perfect system, today the judiciary uses …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 24 May, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
U.S. Ambassador to BiH Maureen Cormack Remarks at the “2020 Vision for BiH: Prospects for Progress” May 16, Sarajevo Good morning distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen. Five months ago, our hosts today from Johns Hopkins SAIS brought many of us together on Jahorina to begin a discussion on taking the necessary steps to build a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 16 May, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
BiH Parliamentary Assembly (Blue Room) Remarks Ambassador Maureen Cormack I am very happy to be here today. This is my first official event with the Federation Women’s Caucus, but I first heard about your good work from Senator Jeanne Shaheen and her chief of staff, Maura Keefe, who very much appreciate having been your partners …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 12 May, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
Chargé d’Affaires Paul Horowitz Reading of the play “SEVEN” in BiH Federation Parliament March 8, 2016 Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen! And a special hello and expression of gratitude to all of the ladies in the room today as we celebrate International Women’s Day. Thank you very much for inviting me to speak on such …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 8 March, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
Hotel Bristol Remarks Ambassador Maureen Cormack President Tegeltija, Director Lisak, distinguished ministers, judges and prosecutors, attorneys, donor representatives, honored guests. Since I arrived here in Bosnia and Herzegovina one year ago, I have consistently noted that corruption is one of the biggest challenges facing BiH today. In December, the U.S. Embassy hosted a week of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 28 January, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished colleagues, and honored guests, I am very pleased to join the Igman Initiative today as you celebrate the 20th anniversaries of both the courageous trip over Mt. Igman that launched your initiative and of the Dayton Peace Agreement. The importance of your thought-provoking conversations on Bosnia and Herzegovina is …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 12 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Chairman Bojic, Minister Borovac, Speaker of House of Peoples Tadic members of the Parliament, members of the academic community, representatives of civil society, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you on this important occasion; Human Rights Day. Today we commemorate the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 10 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Ladies and Gentlemen, Distinguished Guests I am very honored to be here today to recognize those who have demonstrated true dedication and courage in the fight against corruption. These individuals represent the many men and women who work to bring justice and transparency to the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and, I hope after today, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 7 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Ministers, Ambassador Bodonyi, Ambassador Sinanoglu, and distinguished guests – As 190 countries prepare for the COP 21 event in Paris next week, we are gathered here today to consider the context of what is at stake when we discuss climate change, and focus on how we can ensure success in Paris and here in BiH. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
As Prepared for Delivery Ladies and Gentlemen, Honored guests, Distinguished Colleagues, Dobro Jutro and Good morning! Introduction I am very honored to be here today to open this conference and celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Dayton Peace Accords, technically known as the General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 16 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Parliament Ceremonial Hall, September 15, 2015, 13:00 p.m. Dragi svi danas okupljeni ovdje na ovaj istinski poseban dan! To all of you gathered here today, what a special day! This is an important day for all the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a day to celebrate a priceless institution, your National Museum. With the agreement …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 15 September, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Good morning ladies and gentlemen. Thank you so much for hosting me here in Mostar at this conference organized by the Agency for Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Education to present Common Core Curriculum outcomes for civic education, and to discuss next steps. In my seven months here in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I have concluded that …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 3 September, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Faculty, parents, friends, dignified guests, and the graduating class of 2015 – it is my great pleasure to address you all today at the sixth commencement ceremony of the American University of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Congratulations to the AUBiH community—and especially the graduating class of 2015 – on reaching this occasion. I want to thank …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 8 July, 2015 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina Ladies and Gentlemen, good evening. As United States Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is an honor to host each of you this evening. Dobrodošli and welcome. “President Ivanic, President Izetbegovic, Chairman Zvizdic, Ministers, Excellencies, Eminences , ladies and gentlemen, thank you so much for being with us tonight. I would …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 1 July, 2015 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
University of Tuzla Dobro jutro, dame i gospodo i hvala vam sto ste danas moji domacini na Univerzitetu u Tuzli. (Good morning ladies and gentlemen, and thank you so much for hosting me here today at the University of Tuzla.) Rector Halilovic, esteemed members of the University of Tuzla faculty and staff, special guests, and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 6 May, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
University of Sarajevo Good Morning! I want to begin by thanking Rector Avdispahic for the invitation to come speak with you today, and many thanks to all of you distinguished faculty and students for the warm welcome and for taking time out of your classes to join me. It is an honor for me to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 5 April, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Good afternoon and thank you for inviting me to the American Chamber of Commerce’s first luncheon of 2015. I am very pleased to have this opportunity to engage directly with all of the members of the American Chamber of Commerce and other business leaders on what I believe is one of the most important issues …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 12 March, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Ladies and gentlemen, good evening to you all. Thank you for your warm welcome, both tonight and in the days since we arrived. We’ve had a wonderful introduction to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and we are grateful for everyone’s kind hospitality and well wishes. My husband Bill sends his regards— he is a construction engineer with …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 5 February, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
Mayor Komšić, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen: I am honored to be here today to mark the successful completion of important restoration works to the Red Cross Society building, which were carried out with funding from the U.S. Embassy’s Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, in close collaboration with the Commission to Preserve National Monuments and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo | 4 February, 2015 | Topics: Speeches