EC 2023 Report on BIH Delivered

Head of the European Commission and Special EU Representative in BIH Ambassador Johann Sattler handed over to Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of BIH Borjana Krišto the European Commission Report on BIH for year 2023, which recommends conditionally a start-off of negotiations for BIH membership in the EU. 

Chairwoman Krišto stated that the European Commission Report on BIH for this year represents an important breakthrough and encourages a stronger, more meaningful, faster, better more committed fulfilment of remaining obligations and priorities on the EU membership road.

Chairwoman Krišto thanked to the Commission, headed by President Ursula von der Leyen and to all within the EU, decisive to support the recommendation for BIH to open negotiation process with the EU.

She stressed that it is important for the document was based on the output of the Council of Ministers and all BIH Institutions as to the European road and required reforms.

“Compared with previous years, an important progress was achieved in the European reforms, particularly in the areas of rule or law, functionality of democratic institutions, harmonisation of foreign policy positions with those of the EU, combating corruption and crime, in addition to strengthening of stability and development of a functional society”, Chairwoman Krišto said.

She is pleased for the European Commission adopted a new plan and growth package, noted in its Report for BIH and presented by von der Leyen during her visit to BIH last week.

“In accordance with the growth plan, we are expected to make a relevant breakthrough in fulfilment of certain conditions, for funds withdrawal and reform implementation,” Krišto said, concluding that the funds availability depends on BIH.

Ambassador Sattler stated that the EU doors are widely open for BIH, so it is up to its politicians and institutions to implement needed reforms and use the chance. He said it is a good news that BIH is moving ahead on tis European road, so the recommendation was given for the start of negotiations with BIH once required harmonisation on certain criteria is achieved.

He explained that the report suggests that the European Commission will, submit a progress report, by next March at latest, concerning concrete opening of the negotiations.

“It is good thing that BIH catches up with the rest of the region. It is a whole package directed to Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. The EU recognised positive moves in BIH, noting some obstacles slowing down BIH on its European road. The report is unquestionable indicator that BIH place is in the EU”, Sattler said.

He reminded that the EU adopted a package of EUR six billion of grants and EUR four billion of loans.

“It will not be money easily granted, but rather conditioned upon reforms and will follow a modality of Reconstruction and Recovery Programme, designed for member countries after corona virus pandemics. If you realise reforms, you will get the funds, Ambassador Sattler said.

Photos and Video shootings:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/vijeceministara/albums/72177720312521452 

Press conference:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLinR1srKWk

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