HOMELAND MEETS THE DIASPORA: LOPARE WELCOMES THOUSANDS OF VISITORS

The 15th Diaspora Days were officially opened in Lopare with a ceremonial program and a festive parade of participants. The traditional event, which runs until July 26, brings together people from the Majevica region living around the world under the slogan "Majevica, I Carry You in My Heart."

PHOTO: Dešavanja u Bijeljini

The event is organized by the Municipality of Lopare in cooperation with the Association of Majevica Residents in Switzerland, with the aim of preserving ties with the homeland and strengthening cooperation between the diaspora and their native region.

FOLKLORE OPENS THE CELEBRATION

Before the official opening, participants marched through the streets of Lopare, followed by a folklore festival featuring cultural and artistic societies from Krepšić, Obudovac, Pelagićevo, Ilićka, Ravno Polje, Priboj, and Lopare.

Irena Lukić, President of the "Prosvjeta" Serbian Educational and Cultural Society in Lopare, said that folklore and fellowship are the perfect way to open the event, expressing her satisfaction at welcoming groups from neighboring communities with whom they have maintained close friendships for years.

Representatives of Prosvjeta emphasized that Diaspora Days play an important role in connecting people who remain in Majevica with those who have built their lives abroad.

THE DIASPORA AS A KEY PARTNER IN DEVELOPMENT

Ilija Jović, a representative of the Association of Majevica Residents in Switzerland, noted that the association has co-organized the event with the Municipality for 15 years. He also highlighted its strong humanitarian mission, supporting socially vulnerable families across the Majevica region.

Lopare Mayor Rado Savić announced that this year's Diaspora Days will feature a rich cultural, sports, and business program, offering activities for all generations.

LOCAL PRODUCTS FAIR AS THE HIGHLIGHT

The highlight of this year's event will be the Fair of Homemade Products and Traditional Crafts at Busija, where organizers expect a large number of exhibitors and visitors.

According to Mayor Savić, around 10,000 people are expected to attend the various events throughout the festival, making this year's edition the largest and most successful so far.