Sarajevo, August 21, 2026 – Within the framework of the Sarajevo Film Festival, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Italian Picentia Short Film Festival, organized by the ACT Production Cultural Association, and the Bosnian Silverframe Film Festival. The agreement was facilitated by the Embassy of Italy in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of its cultural diplomacy initiatives. The collaboration is dedicated to young filmmakers and includes exchanges, workshops, masterclasses, festival programs, and international film promotion activities. Particular attention will be given to young authors whose films were presented at this year's edition of the Silverframe Film Festival, who will be able to participate in programs and activities in Italy. The Memorandum also provides for screenings, special programs, and events dedicated to Italian cinematic culture in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Bosnian culture in Italy. Ado Hasanović, artistic director of the Silverframe Film Festival, emphasized: "This is truly important news for us. It is the first time we are creating this type of exchange, bringing together people from different regions and cultures to participate in the same program, share their experiences, and present the work produced during the festival. We share many values and a common cultural background, so this cooperation can become an important bridge between different regions and cultures." Luca Capacchione, artistic director of the Picentia Short Film Festival, highlighted: "This type of cooperation is very important, as is the role of the Italian Embassy. Its role is not only political, but also social and cultural. As we often say, where politics ends, culture can continue to build connections between people. For me, this is the beginning of a long journey we will undertake together. The agreement was signed for three years, but I believe this collaboration will continue year after year and, hopefully, for many years to come." The Ambassador of Italy to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarah Eti Castellani, stated: "Culture is one of the strongest bridges between our countries, and cinema in particular has an extraordinary ability to create dialogue and bring people closer together. Supporting this initiative means investing in youth, creativity, and the building of new relationships between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Embassy is pleased to have facilitated this meeting and hopes that the Memorandum can generate new concrete opportunities for young film professionals."
