Croatian and Bosnian film festivals sign cooperation charter

The Vukovar Film Festival, a prominent Croatian event, and the "Ivo Gregurević" Croatian Film Days from Bosnia and Herzegovina have formalized their collaboration by signing an international cultural cooperation charter in Orašje. This pact signifies a significant step toward bolstering regional film and cultural ties.

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We waited a long time, but it's never too late. I hope this idea will bear fruit and positive results in the sphere of film art.

Both festivals are driven by a shared goal: promoting cinematic art, fostering cultural exchange, and building connections among filmmakers on both sides of the border. Ilija Benković, representing the "Ivo Gregurević" Croatian Film Days, expressed his hope that the initiative will yield positive results in the realm of film art. Darko Puharić, director of the Vukovar Film Festival, emphasized the importance of shared responsibility for future generations, describing the partnership as both a friendship and a commitment.

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This partnership is friendship, but also a responsibility to leave the best we can for the young people.

The charter commits the signatories to developing partnerships in film culture and audiovisual arts. This includes exchanging film programs, creators, and experts, jointly organizing cultural and educational events, promoting Croatian film heritage and contemporary production, encouraging young filmmakers, and strengthening cross-border cooperation between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Guided by the common goal of promoting film art, cultural exchange, and connecting filmmakers on both sides of the border, the partners have confirmed their lasting cooperation with this charter.

Looking ahead, the collaboration will extend beyond the signed document with immediate joint projects. The Vukovar Film Festival will be a guest in Orašje, while the "Ivo Gregurević" Croatian Film Days will present film screenings in Vukovar. This will allow audiences at both festivals to experience the programs and works of their partner organizations. The 31st "Ivo Gregurević" Croatian Film Days are scheduled for August 29 to September 5, 2026, in Orašje. The 20th Vukovar Film Festival will take place from September 2-5, 2026.

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This Charter represents the beginning of a long-term partnership that will contribute to the development of film art, cultural exchange, and stronger connections between film communities in the region.