To mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Brčko District, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Adebayo Babajide, visited Brčko on 6 and 7 March, where he underlined the European Union’s continued support for the development of Brcko District and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU integration path. The EU remains a strong partner in advancing governance reforms, transparency and the economic development of the District. Key infrastructure projects include the €3 million investment in Brčko Port to support its modernisation as well as the upcoming €8.5 million investment in Sava River demining, EU Delegation in BiH writes.
Speaking at the central anniversary ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of Brčko District on 7 March, Babajide reflected on the Brčko District’s unique governance model and its role in ensuring stability in BiH. “This year’s anniversary is not only a reflection of the city’s resilience and strength, but also marks 25- years of transformation and growth. I would like to commend you for a successful multi-ethnic cooperation and the progress achieved so far. Brčko is an excellent example of what can be accomplished with the right political will, joint work on the reforms and the common vision of the future. The European Union is proud to be part of the Brčko’s journey and we will continue to stand by the city and its citizens as a reliable partner, providing support to implement reforms, improving infrastructure and creating a more prosperous and inclusive society. Together, let’s ensure the next 25 years bring even greater success for Brčko, for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and for our shared European future”, said Babajide.
During the visit, Babajide met with Brčko District political leadership, including Mayor Siniša Milić, Deputy Mayor Anto Domić, Speaker Damir Bulčević, and Deputy Speaker Ivo Filipović reaffirming its commitment to supporting good governance and economic development of the District. Babajide highlighted the two key EU infrastructure investments in the city: the modernisation of the Brčko Port and the upcoming €8.5 million worth grant for demining the Sava River.
As part of the EU’s commitment to fostering dialogue with civil society, Babajide met with local organizations at the EU Enlargement Café event, exchanging views on the European path of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the role of Brčko District in the broader integration process.
Infrastructure development remains one of the key priorities for the EU in Brčko. At a conference on the Brcko District’s transport infrastructure, organised by the BiH Ministry of Transport and Communication on 7 March, Babajide emphasized the importance of connectivity and sustainable economic growth. Following the Conference, BiH Minister of Transport and Communication Edin Forto and Brčko Port Director Perica Jošić joined Babajide for a visit to the Brčko Port, where the EU’s €3 million investment supports enhanced trade and regional connectivity.
The visit concluded with a moment of remembrance as Babajide paid tribute to civilian victims of the wars from 1939-1945 and 1992-1995, underscoring the EU’s role as a project founded to bring peace to Europe and its dedication to peace and reconciliation in the Western Balkans.
