Balkan bash
Four years ago, the embassies of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Slovenia joined forces to stage a festive party to end all parties. It was so good, it became a tradition and this year’s celebration was no different. Politicians, diplomats, musicians and artists all mingled over fine Slovene wine and Bosnian food – they even fired up the grill on the balcony in gale-force winds. And in between all the eating, drinking and merriment, a succession of artists took centre stage with the evocative art and photography of Bosnians Sonja Radan and Lala Meredith-Vula as a backdrop. Lord Ashdown movingly recited poetry, followed by Slovene singers Irena Preda and Tanja Ravljan, accompanied by Dado Dzihan and Oliver Metcalfe. The revelry continued late into the night with the hard-rocking Cool Shakers. Sadly this will be the final festive party for Ambassador Jadranka Negodic who finishes her term next year. Let’s hope the tradition continues with her successor

PHOTOS: PIERRE DE VILLIERS

Lords Ashdown and Hannay in conversation