Remarks of High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini at the press conference following the European Union - Bosnia and Herzegovina Stabilisation and Association Council
I am very pleased to welcome my good friend Denis [Zvizdić], the Chairman [of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina] together with his delegation, Ministers, the Ambassador for this 3rd Stabilisation and Association Council between the European Union and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The meeting gave us an opportunity to review what has been achieved over the last year and, most importantly, we discussed the work that is still ahead of us.
Since our second Council exactly one year ago, certain important reforms were passed in the country, notably on pensions and excises. These measures are key for the prosperity of the people and of the country. The positive macro-economic outlook is also an important and very encouraging signal.
But analysing where we were last year and where we are now, it is also very clear that much remains to be done, in particular in sectors such as rule of law or further socio-economic reforms. These are all key sectors, for the benefit of the citizens and for the country's progress on the path towards the European Union.
The general elections in October – we believe – offer a new opportunity. People will have their say over the country's direction, and the elections offer the same opportunity for political parties and leaders to come out, with concrete reform projects addressing the needs and expectations of all citizens in the country.
Election campaigns are not about commemorating a divisive past. They are about looking into the future and presenting forward-looking programmes.
Only functioning courts, good governance, reformed public sector and reformed public enterprises and a modern, forward-looking political culture will convince your citizens that you are serious about the European Union integration of the country.
So we would encourage you, as we have done during this meeting, to use the increased momentum in the region and also your upcoming elections to bring renewed dynamism to your EU integration process and to the prospects of a better life for your citizens.
And in this, you know that you can always count on our support.
Link to the video: https://ec.europa.eu/avservices/video/player.cfm?ref=I15849