02/12/2014 OHR

High Representative Inzko Met Turkish Foreign Minister Davutoğlu

High Representative Valentin Inzko met today in Sarajevo with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey Ahmet Davutoğlu. High Representative Inzko informed Minister Davutoğlu about the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina in light of the ongoing demonstrations around the country as well as about the other challenges the country is facing.

The High Representative reiterated that the international community fully supports the rights of the citizens to protest against the current socio-economic and political problems in the country, but that these demonstrations must be held peacefully and in line with the law. The High Representative also urged the relevant authorities and the citizens to urgently engage in a two-way dialogue with the aim of addressing the concerns of the citizens through concrete action. Such a dialogue should help Bosnia and Herzegovina to address the real hardships the citizens face and help the country move forward on the Euro-Atlantic agenda. The International Community stands ready to help the citizens and the authorities in this regard.

“Lack of investments, unemployment and high corruption are common problems to all citizens across Bosnia and Herzegovina. These problems must be addressed urgently” said High Representative Inzko.

High Representative Inzko expressed his appreciation for Turkey’s constructive engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as Turkey’s active participation in the Peace Implementation Council’s Steering Board.