The City Council of the City of Sarajevo, at today’s session, decided to award the “Honorary Citizen of the City of Sarajevo” award to Congressmen Michael Ray (Mike) Turner and Matt Joseph, Senator Cynthia Jeanne Shaheen, and Prof. Dr. David Pettigrew.

As explained, during his term, Congressman Michael Ray (Mike) Turner reminded in his speeches before an international audience that Sarajevo, as the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has a symbolism that transcends national borders – it is proof that a multiethnic city can survive war and once again become an example of living together.

Also, during Turner’s term, Dayton fulfilled its role not only as the place where a historic agreement was signed, but as a city that opened its institutions, community, and identity to the idea that peace can be a universal value, not just a diplomatic act.

Congressman Matt Joseph is a long-time friend of Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina. He continuously works on institutional cooperation between Dayton and Sarajevo, and the cities are officially sister cities.

To American university professor Dr. David Pettigrew is being honored for his contributions to truth and justice in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in preserving the memory of victims of genocide and other war crimes, and advocating for the removal of symbols that glorify convicted war criminals.

Senator Cynthia Jeanne Shaheen has consistently demonstrated her commitment to strengthening U.S.-BiH relations and her support for BiH’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

Her commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and prosperity of BiH makes her one of the most important and enduring allies in the U.S. political arena.

City Council Chairman Alen Girt announced that the “Honorary Citizen of the City of Sarajevo” awards will be presented to Congressmen Michael Ray (Mike) Turner and Matt Joseph, Senator Cynthia Jeanne Shaheen, and Prof. Dr. David Pettigrew on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Statehood Day – November 25.