Republika Srpska successfully showcased its publishing industry, writers, scientists and cultural institutions at the 69th International Belgrade Book Fair, delivering an important message about the role of books in preserving national identity, according to Mlađen Cicović, Head of the Republika Srpska Representative Office in Serbia.
Cicović emphasized that Republika Srpska’s 16th appearance at the prestigious literary event was dedicated to marking the 65th anniversary of Ivo Andrić receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature.
This year’s presentation was held under the slogan “To Exist. To Carry an Identity,” inspired by Andrić’s words.
“At a time when we, as a people, face various pressures and challenges, we considered it important to demonstrate that Republika Srpska has much to offer — its own writers, scientists, publishers, educational and cultural institutions, and, most importantly, creative potential that continues to develop,” Cicović stated.
Books play a vital role in preserving national identity
Cicović stressed that books represent much more than products of the publishing industry.
According to him, literature and scientific publications are essential instruments for preserving collective memory, cultural heritage, language and national consciousness.
He emphasized that books help societies maintain an understanding of their historical roots, cultural values and future aspirations.
Republika Srpska presented 100 publications and 38 publishers
This year’s participation featured an extensive program highlighting the diversity of Republika Srpska’s literary, scientific and cultural achievements.
A total of 38 publishers from Republika Srpska presented 100 publications, while 131 writers, scientists, professors, literary figures and other creative professionals participated in promotional events and accompanying activities.
The program included 35 book presentations, an official opening ceremony, a traditional literary evening and the presentation of the Charter of Success award.
“This was a truly diverse overview of the literary, scientific, educational and cultural life of Republika Srpska, allowing different areas of our creative work to be presented and promoted in one place,” Cicović explained.
Pančić’s Spruce receives Charter of Success award
Cicović expressed particular satisfaction that this year’s Charter of Success, awarded to the publisher of the most sought-after book at the Republika Srpska stand, went to the Faculty of Forestry at the University of Banja Luka.
The award recognized the monograph Pančić’s Spruce, written by professor Milan Mataruga.
The publication explores a rare and endangered endemic tree species considered one of the most significant symbols of the natural heritage of Serbia and Republika Srpska.
“Pančić’s spruce is a rare and endangered endemic species and one of the most important symbols of the natural heritage of Serbia and Republika Srpska,” Cicović said.
He highlighted the fact that the species naturally grows in both territories, giving it particular symbolic significance.
“It is almost as if nature itself wanted to send us a message about our roots, closeness and unity,” he added.
Nature and cultural heritage reflect a shared identity
According to Cicović, Pančić’s spruce embodies the central message of this year’s slogan, “To Exist. To Carry an Identity.”
He explained that national identity is preserved not only through literature, art and cultural traditions but also through the natural environment and shared heritage.
“Identity is preserved not only by what we create and inherit, but also by the nature, landscapes and heritage that connect us,” Cicović stated.
He expressed confidence that Republika Srpska’s participation successfully reflected the chosen slogan while appropriately commemorating the anniversary dedicated to Ivo Andrić.
Belgrade Book Fair strengthens cultural connections
Cicović emphasized that the organizers intended to achieve more than simply presenting books and publishers from Republika Srpska.
Their broader objective was to demonstrate that every publication represents knowledge, creativity, cultural memory and awareness of national identity.
“This is a value we want to preserve and pass on to future generations, and the Belgrade Book Fair is one of the most important places where we can demonstrate it,” Cicović concluded.
United Arab Emirates named guest of honor for 2027
Official promotional events featuring publishers from Republika Srpska concluded on October 30.
The 69th International Belgrade Book Fair, which opened on October 23, will officially close on October 31 with a ceremony symbolically handing over the open book to the next guest of honor.
The United Arab Emirates will hold that distinction at the 70th anniversary edition of the International Belgrade Book Fair.
This year’s event brought together approximately 300 exhibitors from Serbia and around the world, including publishers and cultural institutions from Republika Srpska.
Source: RTRS
