The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, met in Sarajevo with Ian Borg, the Chairman-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign, European and Trade Affairs of Malta, who said that the OSCE will continue to provide support to BiH.
After the meeting, Konaković emphasized that today’s visit in challenging times for BiH is significant and encouraging.
“We now have two clear pictures. On the one hand, there are great opportunities that are offered due to the correct attitude of the European Union towards BiH, opportunities to improve, strengthen our economy through the growth plan, make our market even more attractive and thus attract investors and ultimately keep young people in their country. And on the other hand, there are threats that, due to the bad and malignant influence of some people from countries who do not care about the development of BiH, have complicated or slowed down our European path,” said Konaković.
According to him, the challenges to unblock the European path lie ahead, and he hopes that BiH leaders will be aware of the opportunity brought by the story of the Growth Plan and European integration, in which the doors for full membership of BiH have been opened wide after a long time.
He added that they also discussed the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and expressed hope that the war events would stop as soon as possible, that dialogue would begin to seek solutions that satisfy the interests, above all, of the Ukrainian people.
Borg said that today’s visit is a confirmation of a lasting and strong partnership with BiH for the purpose of greater prosperity and stability.
At the beginning, he expressed his condolences to the families of those killed in the recent floods in BiH, adding that he was “moved by their courage and strength”.
“Recovery from such disasters is never quick or easy. But I am convinced that with the joint efforts of local and national authorities, civil society and the international community, we will succeed in restoring and rebuilding what has been damaged or destroyed,” said Borg.
He added that it is important to build a stronger society and lay the foundations that will be able to prevent natural hazards from escalating into disasters in the future.
“Our mission in this country stands ready to support the relevant authorities at all levels of government to achieve this goal,” Borg said.
He added that he is aware of the fact that the political situation in this country is full of challenges and that Malta, as the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, is determined to work with partners.
“I call on all political leaders to stop resorting to divisive narratives and help create a truly constructive atmosphere that will lead to the achievement of concrete progress for all citizens of the country,” Borg said, adding that strengthening stability, prosperity and job opportunities remain the most important priorities for all.
He added that BiH’s progress on the EU path is visible and that compromise between decision-makers and community leaders is crucial.
“This is a sign of responsible leadership and a clear vision focused on the future, not the past. This approach is needed to effectively address problems in key areas such as strengthening good governance, the rule of law with a full commitment to fighting corruption,” Borg said.
He added that the OSCE is ready to advocate for policies that prioritize equality and justice for all.
“With the comprehensive instruments at our disposal and decades of experience, the OSCE is fully prepared to deepen its engagement, continue to build on the foundations of previous achievements, and continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to a stable and prosperous future,” Borg said, AA writes.
