Instead of organising a major public event for New Year’s Eve, Sarajevo will this year redirect the funds planned for it towards the procurement of vaccines against COVID-19, the Mayor, Abdulah Skaka, confirmed on Friday.

Sarajevo has been organising concerts for New Year’s Eve which included performances by local and regional stars in recent years.

But that has changed this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“The most important thing for us is our citizens, their health and safety. Until the arrival of the vaccine, we must all act responsibly and adhere to epidemiological measures,” Skaka pointed out.

He urged locals to be patient and show responsibility in light of the pandemic and to stay at home for New Year’s Eve and celebrate with their families.