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The 100th birthday of Alija Izetbegovic, the first president of independent Bosnia and Herzegovina, was commemorated with a special event at the National Theatre in Sarajevo. The highlight of the event was the world premiere of a symphony inspired by Izetbegovic’s own book, “Escape to Freedom.”
The premiere was attended by Izetbegovic’s son and Democratic Action Party (SDA) Chairman Bakir Izetbegovic, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Sarajevo Emin Akseki, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ilim Yayma Foundation Bilal Erdogan, senior Bosnian officials, diplomats from numerous countries, close relatives of Izetbegovic and many invited guests.
Messages from the Speaker of the Turkish Parliament Numan Kurtulmus, as well as letters from other heads of state, were also read during the program.
In his message, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan praised Izetbegovic’s life, highlighting his struggle against oppression and his unwavering faith in the face of seemingly impossible circumstances. Erdoğan emphasized that Izetbegovic’s legacy resonates not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina but across the oppressed world as the voice of conscience.
He also noted Izetbegovic’s enduring bond of trust and affection with Türkiye, affirming that he holds a permanent place in the hearts of the Turkish people.
The symphony, adapted by Emir Mejremic from the Sarajevo Music Academy, was performed alongside a visual presentation of Izetbegovic’s photos and videos. The orchestra’s performance received prolonged applause from the audience.
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