Durakovic: Andy Burnham understands Srebrenica and BiH, a significant hope for our country

Durakovic emphasized that Burnham is not a politician who knows about Srebrenica only in a ceremonial sense, but an official who, together with Manchester leaders, participated in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the genocide in 2020. At that time, the City of Manchester adopted a commitment to mark the genocide anniversary every July, sending a clear message against hatred, intolerance, and genocide denial.

''I know his work. Andy Burnham comes from a political tradition that understands people outside centers of power, communities that feel forgotten, and those who seek to be heard by institutions. He is the kind of person who remembers your name and genuinely cares about what you have to say. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, and especially for Bosniak returnees in Republika Srpska, that is an important message. We need allies who understand that peace is not an abstract word, but daily security, the right to identity, language, dignity, and life without fear,'' Durakovic said.

He stressed that the United Kingdom has for years been one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s key international partners, particularly through support for preserving the truth about the Srebrenica genocide, opposing historical revisionism, and strengthening democratic institutions.

He believes Burnham’s rise to lead the British government could create room for an even stronger UK relationship with Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in the areas of security, countering hybrid threats, protecting returnees, and supporting remembrance culture.

''Whoever understands Srebrenica understands Bosnia and Herzegovina. That is why I believe a Burnham government could be an important partner for our country. United Kingdom stood by us in key moments, and I believe it will continue to stand with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with truth, with returnees, and with peace. Many thanks to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Minister David Lammy, and the entire government. We have accomplished much together. We continue this work, aware of the dangers of hybrid warfare, AI-related challenges, Russia, and the security situation in Europe,'' Durakovic concluded.

''Whoever understands Srebrenica understands Bosnia and Herzegovina. That is why I believe a Burnham government could be an important partner for our country. United Kingdom stood by us in key moments, and I believe it will continue to stand with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with truth, with returnees, and with peace. Many thanks to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Minister David Lammy, and the entire government. We have accomplished much together. We continue this work, aware of the dangers of hybrid warfare, AI-related challenges, Russia, and the security situation in Europe,'' Duraković concluded.