The Serbian government has granted citizenship to Afghan refugee Farhard Nuri, dubbed "Little Picasso" for his artistic talent. His family has also been given Serbian citizenship.
Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic granted Serbian citizenship to the entire family of Farhard Nuri, the young Afghan refugee who last year became known as "Little Picasso" for his artistic talent in painting and design.
"It is with great satisfaction that today I grant citizenship to this wonderful family hit by misfortune. I am happy that Serbia has shown a human face during the migrant crisis," Brnabic said in a ceremony at the government's headquarters in Belgrade.
'It's important to open doors'
"For us as a society, it's important to open doors, arms and hearts to people in need, giving them the possibility to have a home here in our country and build a future," Brnabic said. She asked Farhard how he felt living in Serbia, and the young refugee said he was having a bit of trouble in school with maths, but otherwise everything is good.
Farhard attended the ceremony with his father, mother, and two brothers. Brnabic, alongside Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic and local authorities in the capital, gave the three boys soccer and basket balls, as well as an art set to the "Little Picasso".
Talent in service to others
Farhard Nuri reached Serbia last year after a long journey via the Balkan route. He is currently being hosted, along with his family, in a migrant reception centre. He has expressed a desire to help others in need, and his artworks have been used to raise money. Last summer in Belgrade, an art exhibition was organized with his work, which included drawings, portraits, and watercolors, in a humanitarian fundraiser for medical treatment for a seriously ill Serbian boy.