At a meeting in Sarajevo today, High Representative Valentin Inzko and Finnish Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja discussed the current political situation and the consequences from the recent floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The High Representative underscored the serious humanitarian, economic and environmental challenges facing the country as a result of the catastrophic floods. He thanked Finland and the European Union for their prompt and generous assistance in the rescue and post-flood recovery efforts.
Speaking of the political situation, the High Representative voiced his concern over the slow pace of reforms and continuing statements questioning the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He stressed that the upcoming general elections represented a chance for citizens to call political leaders to account for the lack of progress of the last few years. “The outcome of the October election will determine what can be achieved in the next four years and in which direction the country will go”, Inzko said.