Ronald Johnson, the candidate of the President of the United States of America Donald Trump for the US ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, stated before the Foreign Affairs Committee of the US Senate that, if he is confirmed, he will work to protect American citizens and advance American interests in Bosnia and Herzegovina, while supporting sovereignty, territorial integrity and peace established by the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Johnson, presenting his candidacy before the Committee, said that the United States of America remains committed to a stable, safe and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will be a constructive partner of the United States of America.
“The United States of America remains committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as to the peace brought about by the Dayton Peace Agreement,” said Johnson.
He said that Dayton ended a devastating conflict in the heart of Europe and laid the foundations for three decades of stability and progress.
If he is confirmed, Johnson said that he will work to preserve stability and encourage responsible leadership throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially as elections approach.
“It is important that political leaders focus on responsible management and ensure concrete results for the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” he said.
Johnson said he intends to work broadly and continuously with all communities and political actors to reduce tensions, prevent escalation and preserve stability.
Thirty years after the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina should increasingly be shaped by its own leaders and institutions, he said.
He added that he will encourage pragmatic solutions to political and economic challenges arising from local needs, and support efforts to strengthen cooperation between different communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“The United States of America can play an important role as a partner and mediator, helping to create the conditions for long-term peace and prosperity, while empowering local leaders to take greater responsibility for the future of their country,” said Johnson.
As one of the priorities of his eventual mandate, Johnson stated the expansion of economic and trade cooperation between the United States of America and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He said that greater trade, investment and cooperation in the field of energy can create opportunities for American companies, while supporting economic growth and prosperity in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Johnson also said he will work to improve energy security, increase American exports and create a business environment that will be open to American investment in key sectors.
Speaking about regional security, he said that the United States of America is dedicated to promoting stability and prosperity in the region, and that it will work with Bosnia and Herzegovina and its partners to limit the space for the malignant influence of Russia and China.
“A stable and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the interest of both the United States of America and the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” concluded Johnson.
