Ex-chancellor of Republic of Austria, Alois Mock is the recipient of the international award ‘Mostar 2005’.
In the statement regarding this prominent award, presented by Center for Peace and Multiethnic Cooperation Mostar for contribution to peace and establishment of the civil society, it is stated that Mr. Mock was chosen as the laureate having in mind traditional friendship between Republic of Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina and Mr. Mock’s constructive participation and personal contribution during the war and postwar events in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The manager of the Center for Peace and Multiethnic Cooperation, Safet Oručević, says that this non-governmental organisation wished to pay tribute to Mr. Mock’s personal engagement in restoring of peace and coexistence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
‘Mostar 2005’ award is our response to sincere and consistent efforts made by Mr. Mock and Republic of Austria in peace process in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 

In his reply to Center, Alois Mock points out that he was truly delighted by this prestigious international award ‘Mostar 2005’ and honored to be the laureate of the award which was presented to ex-president of the Czech Republic, dissident and author Vaclav Havel last year.
He thanked the Center in Mostar for the noble mission it is engaged in, emphasizing that “coming to terms with the past and reconciliation are important for the stability of the country”.

Furthermore, Mr. Mock emphasizes that the reconstruction of Old Bridge in Mostar, included in World Cultural Heritage list in December 2005, represents a visible sign of reconciliation of different cultures and nations. He also reminds us that he visited Old Bridge in September 2004.

Alois Mock points out that since the ending of war operations, Bosnia and Herzegovina, together with other republics of former Yugoslavia got one step closer on the road to peaceful coexistence.

Peace award ‘Mostar 2004’ was made by Austrian and Bosnian artists, W.M. PÜHRINGER and RIFAT KUTRAGIĆ. This art work is the miniature of the installation named “PEACE CONNECTION” which is part of “Old Bridge – The Peace Monument” exhibition.

The statue is made of brass and precious metals, placed on the original Old Bridge stone, symbolising its reconstruction, reconciliation and tolerance mission.