Washington, DC, February 28, 2025 – State of Maryalnd has officially declared March 1 as Bosnian-American Community Day, as announced last night at a reception hosted at the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Washington, D.C. The event was organized in celebration of March 1, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Independence Day. In addition to representatives from the Maryland-Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council, the reception was attended by officials from key U.S. institutions, including the White House, the State Department, and representatives from Washington, D.C., and the State of Maryland.
The proclamation, signed by Governor Wes Moore, pays tribute to the historic significance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s declaration of independence on March 1, 1992, while highlighting the strong and enduring partnership between Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This act also recognizes the invaluable contributions and deep connections between the Bosnian and American communities. The proclamation coincides with the 22nd anniversary of the State Partnership Program between Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina, underscoring the ongoing cooperation that has flourished in the post-conflict period.
Special recognition was given to the Maryland-Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council, which was acknowledged in the proclamation as a reliable partner and advocate in fostering economic, academic, civic, and other ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the State of Maryland.
“This proclamation stands as a powerful testament to our shared commitment to democracy, human rights, and the pursuit of peace and prosperity. We sincerely thank Governor Wes Moore and his team for their unwavering support and dedication to fostering unity, cultural exchange, and international cooperation,” stated representatives of the Maryland-Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council.
In his address to high-ranking U.S. officials from Maryland and distinguished members of the Bosnian-American community, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the U.S., Sven Alkalaj, emphasized the crucial role of U.S. engagement, from the formal recognition of Bosnia and Herzegovina on April 7, 1992, to the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, as well as the fundamental importance of U.S. assistance in post-conflict reconstruction.
“No country has helped Bosnia and Herzegovina more than the United States, and we will never forget that,” stated Ambassador Alkalaj, while also addressing contemporary challenges and the importance of continued international support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic reforms, taking into account the complex political landscape of the country.
The proclamation was formally presented on behalf of Governor Wes Moore by Maryland Deputy Secretary of State, Michael Lore. The Maryland delegation included, alongside Michael Lore, representatives of the Maryland National Guard, led by Brigadier General Amy Kremser, Deputy Commander of the Maryland National Guard.
Representing the Maryland-Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council at the reception were Adnan Hadrović, co-founder of the Council, and Mia Bakal, University Partnerships Advisor for the Council.
