TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR OF REFUGEE WOMEN’S HANDICRAFTS OFFICIALLY OPENED IN “PROGRES” GALLERY

Belgrade, 21 November 2008 – Under the patronage of HRH Crown Princess Katherine Foundation, the traditional Christmas bazaar of refugee women’s handicrafts, was officially opened today at Progres gallery located at the corner of Knez Mihajlova and Zmaj Jovina Streets.

Due to the previously accepted obligations abroad the Crown Princess Katherine wasn’t able to attend the opening, on her behalf a letter of support was read by Biljana Latinovic-Jekic, Director of her Foundation.

In the letter Princess Katherine emphasized: “By being here you are supporting this humanitarian endeavor and these outstanding women who are helping their families survive by selling their beautiful handicrafts. As many visitors as possible means great acknowledgment to great courage and persistence of these hard working women, and shows our solidarity with those who overcome great problems of life with honest and hard work and with resolute hope for a better tomorrow”.

During the opening ceremony speeches were delivered by Mr. Vladimir Cucic, Commissioner for Refugees of the Republic of Serbia, who officially opened this years Christmas bazaar and Mrs. Radmila Hrustanovic, Deputy Mayor of Belgrade.

The opening was attended by members of the Serbian Government, members of Diplomatic and numerous citizens. All proceeds from the Bazaar are in aid of refugee women and their families, and socially disadvantaged citizens.

The Bazaar will be opened each day until Sunday, November 23, from 10.00 am to 8.00 pm.