The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, is visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she met with members of the Presidency of BiH. After the meeting, she reiterated the European Union’s clear commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH, while also emphasizing that respect for the rule of law is a key condition for progress on the European path.
“I assure you that the European Union is committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path, as well as to the stability and security of the region. The Constitution of BiH is the cornerstone of peace, and its respect is mandatory. Any action undermining the integrity and sovereignty of this country is dangerous,” Kallas stated.
She emphasized that activities from the Republika Srpska entity seriously undermine the work of institutions and the provision of public services. However, she also praised the fact that many civil servants, police officers, and judicial functionaries have remained loyal to the institutions of BiH and have not succumbed to political pressures. As she stated, “ordinary citizens are paying the price for attacks on the work of police and judicial authorities.”
Speaking about the presence of the EUFOR mission, Kallas emphasized that the increase in the number of military forces is a response to the political crisis and confirms the EU’s readiness to ensure peace and stability.
“Political leaders must work on bridging divides, not deepening them. They bear the responsibility for finding solutions and for leading the country out of the crisis,” she stated.
Kallas emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a few additional steps, could soon formally open negotiations with the EU, but that there are no shortcuts: “There is no way to become an EU member without full respect for the rule of law and respect for the institutions that represent the country as a whole.”
She reminded that EU membership brings tangible benefits for citizens and that, with the implementation of reforms, the need for international supervision would gradually diminish.
Earlier in the day, Kallas visited the EUFOR Althea base in Butmir, where she addressed the mission’s personnel and stated that the leadership of Republika Srpska is undermining the constitutional and legal order of BiH, threatening the basic freedoms of all citizens.
“Any attempt to break up the state is unacceptable,” concluded Kallas.
Written by our correspondent D.I.
