Canada reaffirms Support for the Election of Schmidt as High Representative in BiH

The International Expert Team of the Genocide Research Institute of Canada sent a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau requesting a greater role for Canada as a member of the PIC Steering Board in strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina’s state institutions, BiH’s Euro-Atlantic integration and strengthening the role of High Representative.

At the same time, a response was requested regarding Canada’s position on the election of a new High Representative in BiH. The response, sent by Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau on behalf of the Government of Canada, emphasizes Canada’s commitment to the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and confirms that the election of a new High Representative in BiH is an important issue that should be carefully considered.

“I fully agree that the election of a new High Representative is an important issue that needs to be carefully considered. High Representative Valentin Inzko has excelled in this position for many years, but has signaled his desire to step down. Several talks were held between the members of the Steering Committee to make sure that all factors were taken into account and that a consensus could be reached,” said Minister Garneau in a letter.

He points out that Canada is committed to the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is convinced of the need to cooperate with allies and partners to preserve peace and stability in the region.

For that reason, as Garneau states, he is glad to be able to confirm his country’s support for the candidate Christian Schmidt, who was proposed by Germany.

“Canada’s priority for Bosnia and Herzegovina is to encourage its development into a peaceful, economically viable, multiethnic democracy. The work of the OHR is essential to achieving this goal, “said Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau.