The French Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina organized a reception today for Bosnian athletes and sports professionals who represented the country at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris this year.

French Ambassador to BiH, François Delmas, highlighted in his speech that the Olympics and Paralympics were an extraordinary moment for millions globally and an unforgettable experience for all French citizens. He expressed the embassy's gratitude to the Bosnian athletes, stating that they could not let the athletes return from the “City of Light” without thanking them on behalf of France.

“You are often called heroes, and we believe it’s true—not just because of your achievements, but because you embody universal values like effort, self-overcoming, respect, and excellence. You succeed in a country where it’s harder to prepare for such major competitions, yet you still shine,” Delmas remarked.

He praised the athletes for showing a vibrant image of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s energy, success, and diversity, emphasizing that their Olympic committees unite and bring pride to the country.

Delmas also recalled that the Paris Games took place 40 years after the Sarajevo Winter Olympics, which helped strengthen the friendship between France and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Milanko Mucibabic, Vice President of the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina, said the delegation felt comfortable and safe in France, emphasizing the hospitality of the French people. Sabahudin Delalić, captain of Bosnia’s sitting volleyball team, which won silver in Paris, called the Paralympics one of the best-organized events in his seven-Paralympics career.