Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) remains in NATO’s focus, and political leaders in the country must move away from divisive rhetoric and focus on reforms in the interest of all citizens, NATO officials said yesterday at the Alliance headquarters in Brussels, ahead of the meeting of NATO foreign ministers to be held on December 3rd.
At yesterday’s informational briefing on NATO’s engagement in the Western Balkan countries, NATO officials emphasized that the Alliance has devoted much attention to BiH in recent years, especially this year, and that they have strengthened their political and practical presence and activities in the country.
It was also stressed that NATO is closely monitoring developments in BiH, and that after important events during this year and the conclusion of elections in Republika Srpska (RS), it is crucial for political leaders in BiH to move away from divisive rhetoric, overcome obstacles, and lead the country on the path of reforms.
In their presentation on BiH, NATO officials welcomed its progress on the European path as well as the recent renewal of the mandate of the EUFOR Althea operation.
As also stated, NATO has been engaged in the Western Balkan countries for several decades, and officials said that the Alliance’s commitment remains firm and unwavering.
“The position of NATO is clear, our commitment to the stability and security of the Western Balkans is firm, and we will not allow a security vacuum,” it was conveyed.
NATO, as emphasized, is undertaking all necessary political and operational measures to ensure the protection of peace in the region.
For the Kosovo Force (KFOR) operation in Kosovo, it was said that it is key to stability there, while in BiH, NATO continues to support the European Union (EU) – led Althea operation through the “Berlin Plus” arrangement.
According to NATO officials, the Alliance has broad partnership cooperation with BiH, including the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo and support through numerous programs.
They added that NATO continues to work closely with international partners, especially with the EU.
“We are doing all this because the security of the Western Balkans is of vital importance for all of us, and we will not allow peace and stability to be endangered,” the officials said, emphasizing that regional leaders must also give their contribution, take responsibility for their countries, and lead them on the path of reforms.
