This course offers a unique opportunity to exchange views and discuss issues relating to the political and economic future of your country. The discussions you will have throughout this week will not be easy, nor will you necessarily always find common ground among yourselves. I am confident, however, that by the end of the week you will have some new perspectives on old issues. I would like to speak to you today about the future. Specially, the future in an increasingly interdependent and interconnected world.
Globalization poses both opportunities and challenges.
As the rest of Europe embraces globalization, Bosnia continues to define and divide itself along ethnic and linguistic lines. Throughout this talk, I would ask you to set aside your background and your prejudices and focus on the way in which you can change your attitudes, and those of your political leaders. If this does not happen, I am afraid that Bosnia will simply continue down a path that will lead it further into obscurity. I believe that the trends we see emerging in the global economy can serve as a catalyst to rethink policies of ethnic nationalism. This is what is required to move Dayton into its next phase.