AmCham Bosnia and Herzegovina

The seventh traditional charity event named «Night of a Thousand Dinners» aimed at collecting the funds for BiH mine clearance, organized by American Chamber of Commerce to BiH (AmCham BiH) and supported by USA and Canadian Embassies to BiH,was held on the evening of the May 30th 2009 at Sarajevo, hotel Holiday Inn.

This year the "Night of a Thousand Dinners" was attended by officials from the state government, diplomatic corps, and many representatives from business community, foreign and domestic associations.

AmCham President Mr.Haris Pinjo, H.E.Charles English, U.S. Ambassador to BiH, and H.E. David Hutchings, Canadian Ambassador to BiH spoke to the guests about importance of supporting mine action activities.

BiH AmCham President Mr. Haris Pinjo said that he expects $200,000 to be collected at this year's event which is a great result in such a difficult environment and stated:"I know it is more difficult than ever, this year we have world economic crisis with all its negative impact on B&H too." Than he added: "In some countries „Night of a Thousand Dinners" event is postponed due to lack of response and very difficult economic situation.This year, thanks to all of you in this room, we have managed to collect little more than 200,000 $ or more than 80% of last years record figure.This is an outstanding result! Thank you all for contributing to reach mentioned figures neither last nor this year."

H.E. Charles English,Ambassador of the United States of America to BiH stated:
"The Night of a Thousand Dinners is a worldwide initiative created by the NGO “Adopt-A-Minefield” which has raised millions of dollars for mine action. This event serves to draw attention to the global problem of landmines and raise private financial contributions for mine action. Our participation in tonight’s event is a sign of our commitment to mine action and to our interest in working with various private sector groups to achieve our shared vision of a mine-safe world. U.S. Government support for the demining organization Adopt-a-Minefield and its worldwide Night of 1,000 Dinners events dates back to 2001, when then-Secretary of State Colin Powell hosted a fundraising dinner. Since then, we have been proud to show our support for this very worth cause."

H.E. David Hutchings, Ambassador of Canada to BiH added: "Each year the business community steps forward and through their generous donations, makes a significant contribution towards our common goal - a Bosnia and Herzegovina free from the effects of landmines. I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to this year's sponsors - once again you have done yourselves proud. Thank you for your corporate leadership."

U.S. Government and AmCham together always ensure collected funds at donors dinner to be doubled and forwarded to the BH MAC.

This year's evening featured Bakardi Band (Sabina Taslaman,vocal; Elma Selimovic, back vocal; Damir Arslanagić, keyboards; Davor Maraus, percussions; Muris Varajić, guitar),as well as the dance show by Dance Club ''Romantik''. The moderator for the evening was Segmedina Srna.

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