As Bosnia and Herzegovina seeks to accelerate its European path, the Una-Sana Canton received a strong message of support from the top of European diplomacy. Ambassador Luigi Soreca, Head of the European Union Delegation and EU Special Representative to Bosnia and Herzegovina, together with ambassadors of several member states, visited Krajina. The focus of the talks was European integration, the development of the green canton, sustainable tourism, but also the specific problems of citizens who often spend hours at border crossings with the European Union.
Support for the European path
European diplomats said that they see the Una-Sana Canton as an area of great opportunities, from sustainable tourism and renewable energy sources, to environmental protection, an area in which this part of BiH already shows serious potential. They expressed their willingness to help our country on its European path.
“We had a truly important meeting with the mayor and the prime minister. We focused on how the European Union can help Bosnia and Herzegovina and how member states can help it accelerate its process on its European path,” said Romanian Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina Anton Păcurețu.
Problems at the border
Representatives of the cantonal authorities used this opportunity to point out problems that directly affect citizens. Particular emphasis was placed on the hours-long wait at border crossings, which makes life difficult for citizens, but also slows down economic flows towards the European Union.
“In addition to this issue, we also pointed out the problem of Trgovska Gora, but also our development potential, especially when it comes to the development of tourism and a green canton,” said the Chairman of the Assembly of the Una-Sana Canton, Nisvet Jusić (SBiH).
The Prime Minister of the Una-Sana Canton, Mustafa Ružnić (NES), emphasized that this canton already demonstrates European standards in many areas.
“We are considered one of the cantons that is largely European Union and resembles other parts of the European Union when it comes to orderliness. We want to continue in that direction,” said Ružnić.
The potential of a green transition
Although support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path is not lacking, European diplomats have said that the pace of reforms must be significantly faster. It was emphasized that Krajina has the capacity to be an example of a successful green transition.
“The Una-Sana Canton is located at the entrance to the European Union. A large number of Krajina residents live in the diaspora and we have many common topics, which is why we discuss various areas of cooperation,” said the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Bosnia and Herzegovina Damijan Sedar.
The Ambassador of Spain to Bosnia and Herzegovina Maria Molina Alvarez de Toledo said that European countries continue to provide support to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“We stand firmly with Bosnia and Herzegovina as a candidate for the European Union. We believe that you are progressing, but not fast enough. We hope that you will seize the opportunity that lies ahead of you,” said ambassador.
When it comes to environmental protection and sustainable tourism, the Una-Sana Canton is already in Europe, it was said during the meeting. It was added that the people of Krajina are a true example of how to love nature.
“We are perhaps the most prepared company and area for joining the European Union. The laws and standards that the European Union is preparing can help us to be even better,” said the acting director of the Una National Park, Alen Zulić.
The messages from Krajina were clear – the Una-Sana Canton has the potential to be an example of a successful European story. Whether this potential will be translated into concrete projects and solutions will depend on the speed of reforms and the willingness to seize the European opportunity.
