European Council President Antonio Košta said today in Sarajevo that the European Union (EU) remains committed to the European future of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), but he expressed concern about the situation in Republika Srpska (RS).
"I came to Sarajevo to personally convey a message of continued engagement, but also concern regarding recent developments in RS, concern regarding secessionist moves and rhetoric directed against the constitutional order, sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH, and therefore BiH's European path," Košta told reporters after a meeting with members of the BiH Presidency.
He stressed that the EU remains committed to the European future of BiH.
"This year, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the 30th anniversary of Dayton, I think it is important to remember this message," the European official stressed.
The President of the European Council outlined the steps needed for BiH to open negotiations with the EU, emphasizing the adoption of the Growth Plan, given that BiH is the only country in the region that has failed to reach an agreement on this.
"We are demanding the adoption of two laws on the judiciary, the appointment of a negotiator with the EU, and the adoption of the Reform Agenda. Citizens could pay a heavy price if what the EU is offering is not used. BiH citizens are the only ones in the region who are not using the benefits from the Growth Plan," said Košta.
After the meeting with the members of the Presidency of BiH, the President of the European Council also met with the Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of BiH, Borjana Krišto.
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