“The countries of the Western Balkans are an inseparable part of our Europe. Supporting the six countries in the region with all our strength on their way to the European Union has become a geopolitical necessity at the latest in the light of Russian brutal imperialism. We cannot allow ourselves to have gray areas anywhere in Europe and we must do everything together to close all sides that Russia can use for its policy of destabilization, disinformation and infiltration” Annalena Baerbock, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, said today, ahead of her visit to Montenegro Bosnia and Herzegovina.
She added that this means supporting the countries of the Western Balkans in strengthening their democratic institutions, improving their resilience and providing people with an economic perspective.
“As the EU, we have a common homework to put ourselves on the right path for the future, while putting more chairs at the European table. Only together will we be able to lay a solid foundation for peace, freedom and security in Europe,” said Baerbock.
She pointed out that Montenegro has been their ally in NATO for years.
“In the process of joining the EU, Montenegro set an ambitious agenda for itself and is now resolutely pursuing it again. We want to use this new momentum together and follow Montenegro on its way to the EU as a close partner and good friend. In Podgorica, it will also be about how Montenegro can make even better progress in the reforms of the rule of law and in the fight against corruption and organized crime, and how we can support the country in this,” said Baerbock.
She emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina is at a key crossroads in the accession process.
“Last year, the European Council decided to open accession negotiations as soon as the criteria for that were met. On the way to the EU, those responsible in Sarajevo must approach the necessary reforms step by step. The adoption of the law on prevention of money laundering and financing of terrorism was one such European reform step. In view of the October local elections, it is crucial that the reform of the electoral law with the electoral process integrity package be completed now. Free and fair elections are the foundation of a democratic society. We resolutely oppose all those who, with their fantasies about the secession of Bosnia and Herzegovina, place obstacles on the way to the EU and call into question European values,” said Baerbock, it was announced from the Embassy of the Confederation of the Republic of Germany in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
