EU Statement – UN Security Council: Debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina

Chair,

Allow me to begin by taking note of Christian Schmidt’s intention to step down as High Representative for Bosnia Herzegovina. I thank him for his dedicated service over the past 5 years.I also thank him for his briefing today. 

I also wish to stress that it is the task of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council to appoint a successor to the High Representative. 

Chair, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the EU. 

The commitment of the BiH political leadership brought tangible results and contributed to the March 2024 European Council decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. We note with regret that this reform dynamic has since stalled. The European Union urges all political actors to renew the country’s focus on progressing on the EU path, taking resolute actions to implement the necessary reforms.

The sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitutional order, including Constitutional Court decisions, and international personality of Bosnia and Herzegovina need to be respected. 

Chair,

EUFOR Althea continues to play a key role in supporting the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all citizens.

The European Union reiterates the importance of continued cooperation among international actors and expresses support to the mission of the High Representative and his Office towards fulfilling the 5+2 Agenda. 

In closing, I reiterate the EU’s unequivocal commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU perspective as a single, united, and sovereign country.

Thank you.