In cooperation with the University of Sarajevo and EUFOR, the European Association for International Studies (AESI) from Rome, organized the FORUM at the University of Sarajevo’s Rectorate on Tuesday, 23 September 2014. The results of the second cycle of studies “State management and Humanitarian Affairs” were presented within the AESI’s framework, including the peace, integration and culture of tolerance programs implemented during the long-term cooperation between the University of Sarajevo and the “La Sapienza” University of Rome.
University of Sarajevo Rector, Prof. Dr. Muharem Avdispahic, Dr.h.c., delivered a welcome speech in which he emphasized that the in the AESI forum, among others, young students, future policy makers from different universities in Italy, participate and place it in the context of improving the educational process and the future that BiH should be building within the EU. Rector Avdispahic said that respecting the differences and human dignity was the foundation of global stability. He also stressed that Europe will not be complete until the Balkan Region completes with integration. Rector Avdispahic also underlined as necessary for that process the Europe’s expanding of her own concepts and understanding.
H. E. Mr. Ruggero Corrias, Ambassador of Italy in BiH emphasized the importance of improving and strengthening the university cooperation. H.E. also, noted that the cooperation between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long and very successful tradition.
Prof. Dr. Massimo Caneva, AESI President, presented the history and importance of cooperation within the program under which the young, future leaders of B&H were educated for state government. Prof. Caneva also highlighted the importance of developing a culture of peace and tolerance within the context of positive changes and democracy strengthening.
Having emphasized the importance of interuniversity collaboration, Colonel Thomas Widrich, political adviser to the EUFOR commander, wished the success in activities to forum participants.
Former students of the “State Management and Humanitarian Affairs” program’s second cycle studies Mr. Miroslav Zivanovic, former deputy mayor of Sarajevo and Dr. Zlatan Burzic, BH Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented their professional achievements to the AESI delegation in the area of peace, democracy, integration and local civil society development. The AESI delegation consisted of students from Italian universities and professors who were also Forum participants.
The organization of the Forum represents a significant step in continuing the cooperation and development of new programs. The AESI has supported and promoted the university cooperation and continuation of cooperating with the University of Sarajevo by promoting the forum and its mission for the past ten years.
