The Federal Minister of Culture and Sports held a meeting with Azem Džino, president of the Association of Ecologists “Arboretum – Botanical Garden”, a long‑time nature and hiking enthusiast who, even after retirement, dedicates his time to working with children, educating young people, and promoting a healthy relationship with nature. The meeting focused on the Association’s activities, which year after year implement numerous ecological and educational projects, often supported through current reserves and various forms of institutional assistance.

A special highlight was the planting of 1,601 roses in memory of 1,601 children killed in Sarajevo, carried out by the Arboretum Association together with elementary school students. This project has become a symbol of the culture of remembrance, while also serving as a way for younger generations to learn about important historical facts through ecology. The Association also organized memorial hikes under the name “1,601 Flowers”, nurturing remembrance of the children lost in Sarajevo.

Azem Džino also presented a new initiative titled “Water – Source of Life”, which envisions an art workshop at the Skakavac site. The project would bring together children of different nationalities and religious backgrounds, with participation from representatives of the four traditional religious communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, aiming to promote unity, dialogue, nature conservation, and mutual respect.

The meeting also addressed the continuation of developing hiking and educational programs, including activities related to the Alex Langer Trail and memorial hikes that in previous years gathered a large number of participants. It was noted that discussions are expected with representatives of the Embassy of Italy in Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding possibilities for future cooperation and further development of this project.

The Minister expressed support for initiatives that, through ecology, education, sports, and culture, contribute to connecting people and strengthening social values, emphasizing the importance of projects that raise awareness among young people about protecting nature, cultural heritage, and the culture of remembrance.

At the conclusion of the meeting, hope was expressed that in the coming period successful cooperation will be achieved in realizing these valuable projects and visions that promote unity, tolerance, and a responsible attitude toward nature and society.