Secretary-General Accepts Mostar Peace Award, Recalls Strength, Diversity of Historic City in Call for All Citizens to Determine Future

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message at the event “Mostar Does Not Forget Friends” on receiving the Mostar Peace Connection Award, in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, today:

I send my warmest greetings to the distinguished guests and organizers of the “Mostar Does Not Forget Friends" event, and to the citizens of Mostar and Bosnia and Herzegovina.  I deeply appreciate your decision to honour me with the Mostar Peace Connection award.

The Old Bridge, Stari Most, and the historic centre of Mostar, restored to their former glory, bear witness to the strength that diversity, cooperation and peace can bring.  The Old Bridge has stood as a symbol of this stunning, diverse and creative city and region for more than 450 years.  It reminds us of our commitment to overcome divisions and work together towards peace and harmony.

In that spirit, I hope that soon, all citizens can lend their electoral voice in determining the future of their city and of Bosnia and Herzegovina.  The United Nations, and I personally, stand ready to support you in all your endeavours towards building a prosperous, stable and peaceful Bosnia and Herzegovina.