The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, met today in London with the Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Stephen Doughty.
The meeting discussed bilateral relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Kingdom, the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the European and Euro-Atlantic path of BiH, reform processes and regional cooperation. On this occasion, the strong and friendly relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Kingdom, based on intensive political dialogue and substantive cooperation, were welcomed.
The strong support of the United Kingdom to Bosnia and Herzegovina during the challenging period was highlighted, including the continued interest and engagement in the political development of the situation in the country. During the meeting, mutual readiness was expressed for further improvement of bilateral cooperation, with an emphasis on economic relations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of BiH announced.
Konaković said that Bosnia and Herzegovina greatly appreciates the long-standing friendship and strong support of the United Kingdom, especially when it comes to protecting the sovereignty, territorial integrity and the European and Euro-Atlantic path of BiH.
He also stressed the importance of supporting the strengthening of state institutions, the rule of law and the judicial system. He particularly pointed out the seriousness of the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stressing that continued international support for the Dayton Peace Agreement, the constitutional order and state institutions is of crucial importance.
He warned that the current political context, including the election year and the increasing rhetoric challenging the constitutional order, poses a serious risk to the stability and legal security of the country.
Speaking about the appointment of the new High Representative, he stressed the need for a transparent and accountable process, with full responsibility of the member states of the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board (PIC Steering Board). He made it clear that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains committed to dialogue and compromise, but that political concessions to actors who undermine the international order cannot be an acceptable solution when it comes to the appointment of the High Representative.
Minister Konaković reiterated that the presence of the OHR is still necessary in our country, and that its competences must remain at full capacity.
Finally, he stressed that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains firmly committed to reforms, the European and Euro-Atlantic path, expecting stronger support from international partners for these processes.
Doughty stressed that full respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement remains crucial for preserving peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In this context, he particularly emphasized the important role of the Office of the High Representative (OHR) in protecting the Dayton Agreement and the stability of the country. He reiterated that the United Kingdom remains firmly committed to supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and will continue to support BiH on its European and Euro-Atlantic path.
The meeting was also attended by the United Kingdom’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce.
