On November 25, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, met with US Congressman Michael Turner, Congressman Donald Norcross, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in BiH, John Ginkel.
Minister Konaković expressed gratitude to the United States for its consistent and long-standing support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly emphasizing Congressman Turner’s personal commitment to security and defense issues in our country.
The meeting confirmed the strategic partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United States, emphasizing that American support is crucial for preserving post-Dayton peace and stability in our country.
The current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, security, reform processes, and Euro-Atlantic integration were also discussed. Minister Konaković reiterated Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to continuing its path toward full NATO membership and called for stronger US support, especially in light of global security challenges. During the meeting, gratitude was expressed for the continued American support for the modernization, training, and strengthening of the Armed Forces of BiH, with the hope that this cooperation will be further improved. Minister Konaković also informed his interlocutors about the challenges that Bosnia and Herzegovina faces in terms of political stability, including internal obstructions and rhetoric that threatens the Dayton Peace Agreement and the constitutional order. He called for stronger support from the US Congress in confronting actors that undermine the country’s stability. The talks also emphasized the importance of the fight against corruption and organized crime, as key obstacles to reforms and BiH’s progress towards the European Union and NATO. The Minister particularly emphasized the efforts of BiH institutions to strengthen the rule of law and institutional integrity. Both sides confirmed the importance of the perspective of BiH’s membership in the European Union, as well as regional cooperation. Minister Konaković emphasized that the opening of negotiations with the European Union is one of BiH’s key priorities, which is also essential for the long-term stability and development of the Western Balkans region.
During the meeting, the further strengthening of bilateral relations between BiH and the USA, especially in the areas of economic cooperation and energy, was also discussed. The importance of the Southern Gas Interconnection as a strategic energy project that will contribute to the diversification of supply sources, strengthening the energy security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and deepening the partnership with the United States of America was emphasized.
At the end of the meeting, Minister Konaković congratulated Congressman Turner on the recognition of “Honorary Citizen of the City of Sarajevo”, which was awarded to him by the City Council of the City of Sarajevo.
