(ANSA) - ROME, 11 LUG - "Today, we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, a tragedy that, despite our hope, exemplified the unspeakable horrors into which Europe could once again descend. This was driven by actions that raised the horrific banner of 'ethnic cleansing' under the guise of nationalism in an area—the Balkans—that has long been a crucible of encounter and coexistence among peoples and cultures," stated President Sergio Mattarella. "The years that have passed since that terrible massacre do not diminish the victims' cries of pain, which continue to resonate through the testimonies of their surviving family members. The conscience of the international community was profoundly affected by these events, highlighting a collective responsibility for intervention and condemnation from nations. This tragic lesson, like others, reinforces our shared duty to prevent and combat such atrocities and to firmly condemn any attempts at revisionism or denial. Fighting the spread of hateful sentiments is the responsibility of every individual and every country. It is wrong to attribute dishonor and infamy to entire populations; instead, we must pursue severe and prompt justice in every venue — starting with international courts — so that we can foster a foundation for reconciliation and a future of peace and brotherhood. In this spirit, on May 23, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed July 11 as the 'International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide' to remind everyone of this duty, honor the victims, and ensure that the memory of these tragic events is preserved, forever inscribing that fateful day in humanity's collective memory". "The European horizon, which encompasses the aspirations of the Balkan peoples, embodies the values of freedom, democracy, and equality of rights. These values form the basis for peaceful coexistence among diverse peoples while respecting their unique identities. The principles that inspired the founders of the European project remain profoundly relevant in preventing tragedies like the Srebrenica genocide from afflicting our continent again. The communities in the region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, are striving to overcome the tragic legacies of the past and to build mutual trust through a strong commitment to the European project. We must consign the sorrowful era of nationalism—which brought the worst grief of the twentieth century—to history once and for all. Sarajevo can count on the full support of the Italian Republic in this process and the deep friendship that unites our peoples," the head of state concluded. (ANSA).