Sevdalinka Added to UNESCO World Heritage List 😀

Sevdalinka, a beloved Bosnian and Herzegovinian urban folk song, is now on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity!

This recognition, achieved after years of dedicated work, highlights sevdalinka as a vital part of Bosnia and Herzegovina's cultural identity and history.

Minister Sanja Vlaisavljević expressed pride, stating it’s a moment of joy for the entire nation. Experts from the University of Sarajevo and Mostar emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting this musical heritage for future generations.

The announcement was marked by a heartfelt performance of “Kraj potoka bistre vode” at the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports.

Iranian, Bosnian FMs Meet, Discuss Zionist Regime's Crimes 🇧🇦❌🇮🇱❌🇮🇷

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi met with Bosnian Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković on the sidelines of the 10th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Forum in Portugal.

Key topics of discussion included:
😃 Strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties between Iran and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
😃 Addressing the latest regional developments, including the Zionist regime's aggression in West Asia.
😃 Mobilizing international efforts to end the genocide of Palestinians and the occupying regime's actions in Lebanon.

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to fostering partnerships, particularly among Islamic nations, to promote peace and justice globally.

Prokoško Lake ❄️ Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Muslim World League signs an agreement with the Municipality of Jablanica to rebuild public facilities, provide urgent support for educational and health projects, and offer emergency assistance to residents affected by floods. 😊

"Charge" (Juriš), painting by Ismet Mujezinović (1948) 😃

Ismet Mujezinović (1907-1984) was a Bosnian-Herzegovinian painter and member of the Yugoslav Partisan resistance in the Second World War. He is remembered as one of the finest Yugoslav and Bosnian artists.

(Not a political post, a historic one. Schizophrenia in comments will be swiftly executed)

I failed to achieve my goal of 4 posts per day today—or was it yesterday already? 😃

In case yall are wondering what I've been up to these days. 😃

Bosnian soldiers taking a cigarette break, September 1995 👤

🇧🇦 Bosnian Arms Industry Secured Major Contract with Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦

The arms industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina continues its upward trajectory, signing an 80 million BAM contract with Saudi Arabia on February 7, 2024.

This news comes on the heels of a record-breaking year, with BiH companies exporting nearly 344 million BAM worth of weapons and ammunition in the first ten months of 2023—a remarkable 37.5% increase compared to the previous year.

📈 Companies like Igman, Pretis, Ginex, and Binas are driving this historic growth, not only expanding their global presence but also contributing to local community development. The Saudi contract is another milestone in their efforts to strengthen international partnerships.

🔗 With global demand rising, particularly amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, the industry is poised for further success. Let’s hope this growth continues sustainably, even after the conflict ends.

Savagery in Motion😃

Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik emphasized the deep friendship and shared destiny between the Serbian and Jewish peoples during the opening of the "Figures in Motion" sculpture exhibition by Edgar Degas at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Banja Luka.

“We remain dedicated to cooperation with our Jewish brothers and the state of Israel,” Dodik stated, highlighting the shared suffering of both peoples during World War II and the importance of standing together.

Dodik expressed pride that Banja Luka is hosting such a significant exhibition, facilitated by cooperation with Israel and the efforts of the MTA Foundation. He thanked those who made this cultural moment possible, calling it a dream come true for art lovers in the region.

Reflecting on current global challenges, Dodik reiterated support for Israel during difficult times. “We are on Israel’s side today, showing solidarity through the colors of the Israeli flag lighting the Palace of the Republic tonight,” he said.

He stressed the importance of peace and condemned those spreading violence, urging the world to move beyond conflict. Dodik concluded by expressing gratitude to Israel for its understanding of Republika Srpska’s position and called for unity in the pursuit of peace.

“Long live Israel, its freedom, and the Jewish people. Long live Republika Srpska and the Serbian people,” he proclaimed.

Why Russia Allowed Assad to Fall

In my previous post, I outlined the background of the opposition offensive within Syria. I advise readers to review that first before proceeding with this one.
There are multiple reasons why the Russians were reluctant and, in the end, accepting of Assad’s downfall.

😃 The first reason is that Syria is not as valuable to the Russians as it was during the early days of the civil war. A lot has changed regarding the balance of power in the world, such as the rise of BRICS, which Russia, along with China and India, spearheads.

😃 The second reason is that Russia is currently preoccupied with the war in Ukraine.

😃 The third reason is that an agreement has been reached between BRICS and the BRICS-friendly faction in the United States, which dictates stabilization and an end to the conflict in Syria, as well as removing Iran’s influence. Taking action against the Syrian opposition would have prolonged the conflict, contrary to the interests of the major players.

😃 The fourth reason is that regardless of who wins, the United States is bound to leave Syria, and BRICS is likely to enter and rebuild Syria along with the rest of the Middle East. The BRICS organization, which Russia spearheads, will inevitably play a role, so what’s the point of going through all the trouble if, in the end, you still win?

😃 The fifth reason is that it’s a lot less work. Russia doesn’t have to deal with the Kurds, who are backed by America, the Americans themselves, and ISIS remnants roaming the deserts. Instead, they can leave that to Turkey and move on. As for the naval ports, Russia can simply offer financial incentives to the new government, which will need the funds, ensuring their continued presence.

Assad made a crucial mistake by hesitating to reach an agreement with Erdogan and reconcile with Turkey, which BRICS itself supported. He overestimated his support and failed to see the relevance of the agreement. In the end, this led to an opening for the Turks and the Syrian opposition, which benefited from it.