The Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the EU Special Representative in BiH, Ambassador Luigi Soreca, stated that BiH has the potential to exceed expectations and accelerate its European path, but that this requires more political determination, a more functional system and concrete reform moves by domestic authorities.
This was one of his messages during his address at a ceremonial reception held in Sarajevo on the occasion of May 9, Europe Day and marking 30 years of EU activity in BiH.
In his address to the attendees, Soreca reminded that every year in May, the idea that was formulated in the Schuman Declaration on May 9, 1950, when the then French Foreign Minister announced a plan to achieve sustainable peace and prosperity across the continent, is celebrated.
– Today, the rules-based international system, built after World War II, is under pressure like never before. Therefore, Europe Day remains a call to action, a call to build a fairer, safer and more sustainable Europe, a call to protect our common principles, a call to complete the European Union by enlarging it, including BiH – said Soreca.
He noted that this year also marks 30 years of the EU presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina, after the European Commission opened its representation in Sarajevo in 1996 to coordinate the provision of essential assistance.
– Since then, the EU has been a faithful partner, consistently in solidarity with the citizens of this country – he emphasized.
He also emphasized that, at the same time, by developing a partnership on BiH’s path towards the EU, it is investing in socio-economic reforms that prepare it for membership.
– In this process, new jobs are being created, and local communities are already unlocking their potential. The EU is not far away. Already, 73 percent of trade and approximately 60 percent of foreign direct investment are with and from the European Union. This shows the importance of the EU, but also the importance of each member state for this country – said Soreca.
He thanked the Europe Team in BiH for its continued and constructive support, saying that by working together they can achieve more concrete and stronger results for the benefit of the citizens of BiH and the EU.
Among other things, he emphasized that the experiences of countries that have become EU members show that the European path brings stronger economic development, higher living standards, a more stable business environment, and the strengthening of democratic institutions and the rule of law.
– However, we cannot wish for EU membership for Bosnia and Herzegovina more than the authorities of this country. It is well known that the decision-making framework in BiH often means that decisions take time. It is also understood that trust, dialogue and political will are necessary for the system to function, and it has been weak for some time. However, leadership boils down to showing vision, courage and determination – said the head of the EU Delegation, once again inviting Bosnia and Herzegovina. authorities to do what is best for our country and its citizens and to take advantage of the opportunities that the EU has made available.
He also warned that, despite understanding the complex political circumstances in BiH, the European Union functions in accordance with clearly defined procedures and deadlines, which is why the absence of urgent implementation of reforms from the Growth Plan could call into question BiH’s access to funds worth 373 million euros.
– Moreover, if the Law on Courts and the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council are not adopted in accordance with European standards, nor is a chief negotiator appointed, it will not be possible to formally launch the accession negotiations that we and the citizens have been waiting for for so long – he stressed, adding that inaction has its consequences.
He said that every euro lost from the reform program means less investment in the country’s development, while postponing reforms in the area of the rule of law further undermines the security of citizens and weakens the competitiveness of the economy.
– This country is not achieving good results, and we would like to fully realize its potential – Soreca emphasized.
He noted that through meetings with citizens from different areas, he sees every day how important the European path is for BiH.
– Entrepreneurs who know that greater access to the single European market is crucial for their business are looking forward to BH being part of CEFTA. Students who plan to study in Europe through the Erasmus Plus program, researchers who use Horizon Europe, artists who receive support through the Creative Europe program. I know that the majority of BiH citizens in both entities and the Brčko District still support EU membership – said Soreca, emphasizing that what is currently missing is the action of elected representatives.
The Head of the EU Delegation also said that during his almost two years in BiH, he had come to love many of the country’s characteristics, in which he recognized similarities with his native Naples.
– Warm people, love of good food, heart and culture, and the ability to excel internationally in areas such as sports and music – he said, concluding that the citizens of BiH have repeatedly demonstrated the ability to exceed expectations, even when many doubted that this was possible.
Europe Day has been celebrated on May 9, starting in 1950, when Robert Schuman, then French Foreign Minister, presented his proposal to form the European Coal and Steel Community. This proposal, better known as the Schuman Declaration, is considered the beginning of the creation of the European Union.
In 1985, the Council of the European Union in Milan adopted a decision to mark May 9 each year as Europe Day. During this day, activities and festivals take place that bring Europe closer to its citizens. All EU institutions are open to visitors on this day. The slogan of the accompanying actions is determined each year by the country holding the EU presidency at that time.
