University of Sarajevo and WTCA, New York, USA, discuss mutual opportunities and confirm joint commitment to responsible urban development

The Rector of the University of Sarajevo, Prof. Dr. Tarik Zaimović, met with Mr. Robin van Puyenbroeck, Executive Director for Business Development of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), New York, USA, during his visit to Sarajevo to discuss collaboration and alignment on the opportunities the planned World Trade Center (WTC) Sarajevo project would bring to the University and the broader academic community.

Rector Zaimović confirmed that the University of Sarajevo supports development projects that contribute to the modernization and international recognition of Sarajevo, including the construction of the World Trade Center (WTC), with a clear commitment that this capital infrastructure project is aligned with the interests of the University of Sarajevo as well as overall city development.

The Executive Director for Business Development of WTCA emphasized the potential benefits of the project for students, faculties, and the wider surrounding University Campus environment. He also expressed support for the University's efforts to conduct the development of the subject area in accordance with the principles of sustainable urbanism and infrastructure solutions that enable adequate connectivity of university facilities, including the concept of a footbridge which will provide an integrated academic and research ecosystem between future University Campus site and existing faculties and research facilities.

The meeting included an exchange on infrastructural and urban planning matters within the overall University development plans, with particular emphasis on preserving the functional integrity of the Campus and interconnected faculties, ensuring the safety of students and employees. Participants also discussed planned traffic infrastructure and the importance of harmonizing regulatory plans with the role of the University as an institution of special public interest.

Both parties agreed that connecting the University of Sarajevo Campus and the WTC complex can represent a model of partnership and responsible and strategically planned urban development. The discussion concluded with a shared commitment to a constructive path forward through continued dialogue and alignment with the interests of the University community and the long-term development of Sarajevo.