Chair of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denis Bećirović, held a bilateral meeting today with the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), Friedrich Merz.
Bećirović emphasized Germany’s active and strong role in preserving peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the overall stability of the Western Balkans.
He noted the exceptionally good economic cooperation between the two countries. Germany is among the most significant trade partners of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The total foreign trade exchange of Bosnia and Herzegovina for 2025 amounted to 5.87 billion BAM, an increase of 27.81 million BAM compared to 2024.
Bećirović emphasized that Germany is one of the most significant investors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and he called for an increase in German investments, especially in renewable green energy and the defense industry.
The Chair of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed Germany’s constructive role as a member of the steering board of the Peace Implementation Council and as a participant in the Quint Group for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He pointed out the importance of completing the appointment of the new High Representative in the same manner as before. He also stated that, for the preservation of peace and stability, it is crucial that the institution of the High Representative retains the mandate and authority to protect the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Bećirović emphasized that the strategic foreign policy priorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina remain full EU and NATO Alliance membership, and that Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite strong obstructions, has achieved results on its European and Euro-Atlantic path. However, he noted that the results would be much better if there were no blockades and obstructions by the current leadership of the Republika Srpska entity.
Bećirović highlighted the importance of a proactive role in enhancing the EU expansion process and exploring possibilities for accelerating the integration of the Western Balkans region with EU policies.
During the meeting, they also discussed Germany’s proposals, listed in the letter from Chancellor Merz dated May 18, regarding new solutions for accelerating the accession process for the Western Balkans.
In that regard, Bećirović especially highlighted the possibility of Bosnia and Herzegovina joining the SEPA payment system as soon as possible, the abolition of roaming charges, and relief for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s transport workers.
Chancellor Merz confirmed the support of the Federal Republic of Germany for the European integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the countries of the Western Balkans, highlighting that the region’s accession to the EU contributes to strengthening the stability and prosperity of the entire continent.
