Sarajevo, (Fena) – Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized the EU’s unwavering commitment to the stability and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina during her visit to Sarajevo today. She asserted that the EU will not permit the emergence of a security vacuum in the nation.
During her visit, Kallas toured the EUFOR Althea mission in Butmir, where she addressed EUFOR personnel, highlighting the importance of maintaining BiH’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Sovereignty is under threat. We must respond to challenges against territorial integrity, particularly in Europe. The EU acted swiftly to address threats to BiH’s integrity and constitutional order, reinforcing the EUFOR – Althea mission with additional forces in March. The successful completion of your annual exercise ‘Rapid Response’ demonstrates your readiness and operational capability to tackle security threats,” she remarked.
Kallas expressed her approval of the United Nations Security Council’s decision to extend EUFOR’s mandate for another year.
“The world acknowledges your role in safeguarding BiH’s security. Thirty years post-Dayton Peace Agreement, the EU will persist in its efforts to prevent any security vacuum in this country. We will not allow history to repeat itself,” she stated.
She commended the National Assembly of the Republika Srpska for repealing unconstitutional laws, viewing this as an opportunity to reduce political tensions and enhance the rule of law, while reiterating the significance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU accession.
“Free presidential elections will rebuild trust in local governance. The citizens of BiH deserve stability and the chance for a brighter future through EU membership. This opportunity for EU enlargement is rare and must be seized by your political leaders, or they risk losing relevance,” Kallas stressed.
Additionally, Kallas highlighted that after extensive discussions, the Council of Ministers of BiH recently submitted the Reform Agenda to the European Commission.
“This could unlock nearly one billion euros. Each reform enhances the quality of life for citizens. Tomorrow, the European Commission will present our annual enlargement report. I expect our recommendations for the coming year to focus on these issues, including necessary laws for judicial reform and the appointment of a chief negotiator,” she noted.
Kallas commented on the Office of the High Representative’s role in BiH and the application of Bonn powers.
“Bonn powers will cease when appropriate decision-making capacities are established here. The reforms we demand from BiH authorities are specific. The responsibility lies with local authorities. This also applies to the chief negotiator; there needs to be a dedicated office and a trusted individual in this role,” Kallas concluded. (7.11.)
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