Above is Mr. Besnik Deliu, surrounded by Mr. Vegan Berisshu, Head of Mission, and Consul Jean Pierre Latour.

Special screening of the documentary ”Return to Kosovo”

 

After several years of discussion, a significant decree has been signed allowing nationals from countries not officially recognized by the Seychelles to enter and leave Seychellois territory.

Kosovo is the first country to benefit from this new measure, a meaningful development for its diaspora — particularly in Switzerland, where more than 200,000 Kosovars reside.

In this context, Consul Jean-Pierre Latour had the honor of attending a special documentary screening in Zurich on October 2, 2025. The film, presented by British journalist Julius Strauss of The Daily Telegraph, offered a deeply moving account of survival and memory.

At the heart of the documentary is the story of Besnik Deliu, who was present at the event. In September 1998, during the Kosovo War, Strauss met Besnik — then just five years old — shortly after he had lived through one of the most traumatic moments of his childhood.

More than two decades later, journalist and survivor reunite. Together, they revisit those memories, reflecting on the passage of time, the scars left behind, and the long journey toward healing and understanding.

The documentary stands out as a profoundly human story of resilience. It offers a rare and intimate perspective on Kosovo’s recent history, enriched by authentic wartime footage captured by renowned war correspondent Vaughan Smith.

In recognition of their work preserving truth and memory, Julius Strauss and Vaughan Smith were awarded the Medal of Merit by the President of the Republic of Kosovo, H.E. Vjosa Osmani Sadriu, in February 2025.

Through both diplomatic progress and the power of storytelling, this moment highlights not only greater openness between nations, but also the importance of remembering and sharing the stories that shape our world.

 

 

Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Seychelles

in Switzerland

Embassy of the Republic of Seychelles

in Belgium

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