Sarajevo (Fena) – Bosnia and Herzegovina’s presidency of the European Union Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) has been deemed very successful, demonstrating institutional maturity and effective coordination in managing complex regional processes. This was highlighted during the official opening of the 14th EUSDR Forum in Sarajevo, which concluded Bosnia and Herzegovina’s one-year presidency, previously held by Austria.
The two-day forum was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Directorate for European Integration.
Elmedin Konaković, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, symbolically transferred the EUSDR presidency to Bulgaria’s Minister for Regional Development and Public Works, Ivan Ivanov.
Konaković stated that Bosnia and Herzegovina successfully passed a significant test by presiding over the EUSDR, proving its capability to manage complex regional processes for the benefit of its citizens and partners.
He noted that all planned goals were achieved in the past year, particularly emphasizing economic development.
“Our priorities were primarily on economic aspects that enhance Bosnia and Herzegovina’s economy, addressing the emigration of both young and older individuals,” said Konaković.
He expressed gratitude to all partners and participating countries, underscoring the importance of the Danube Strategy as a platform that connects EU member states and aspiring members.
“Through sharing experiences with EU colleagues and their direct support, we achieved significant progress,” he added.
Konaković highlighted the importance of EU enlargement and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s full membership, suggesting the country is “just a few steps away from the historic opening of negotiations.”
He urged all political actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to recognize the significance of adopting two European laws and appointing a chief negotiator with the EU, who should be strongly pro-European.
Elvira Habota, Director of the Directorate for European Integration, stated that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s presidency of the EUSDR was crucial in demonstrating institutional maturity and coordinating activities among the 14 member states.
During its first presidency, Bosnia and Herzegovina organized numerous activities and events, bringing together over 350 representatives from various sectors, while the concluding forum in Sarajevo included more than 400 participants from EU member states and the Danube Strategy.
“The presidency confirmed that Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a center for regional cooperation and a dependable European partner. We have shown that we are not merely part of the European integration process but also active contributors,” she emphasized.
Habota added that the presidency focused on EU priorities, including support for the enlargement process and enhancing cooperation between member states and those in the accession process.
“The Danube Strategy has offered us numerous opportunities, particularly in learning, experience exchange, and forming partnerships that bring us closer to the European Union. Activities involving youth, civil society, and entrepreneurs were especially important,” she noted.
Bulgaria’s Minister Ivan Ivanov expressed a commitment to continue the presidency with the same spirit of partnership that guided Bosnia and Herzegovina’s leadership. He thanked BiH for its dedication and clear results during its presidency.
“As Bulgaria takes over the Danube Strategy presidency, we do so with respect for the work done previously and a strong sense of shared responsibility,” Ivanov stated.
He outlined Bulgaria’s main priorities as reducing regional disparities and creating greater opportunities throughout the Danube region.
“By strengthening the Danube region, we embrace our diversities, turning them into a driving force for common progress and solidarity,” emphasized the Bulgarian minister.
Ivanov affirmed that no region or community should be overlooked, and Bulgaria will work to further enhance the Strategy as a platform for cooperation, solidarity, and unifying policies, financing, and communities.
Ambassador Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation in BiH, stressed that strengthening cross-border cooperation is essential for the EU’s establishment and that the EUSDR aids member states and candidate countries in building stronger cooperation for the benefit of their citizens.
Soreca noted that the EU will continue to align macro-regional priorities with existing financial mechanisms, particularly addressing the needs of youth and future generations.
“The best guarantee for greater prosperity and stability for both Bosnia and Herzegovina and the entire Danube region is a shared future within the European Union,” he stated.
He reminded
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