09/19/1996 OHR Sarajevo

Statement by the High Representative, Carl Bildt

STATEMENT

BY CARL BILDT, HIGH REPRESENTATIVE

Sarajevo, 19 September 1996

The elections just held for the national, entity and cantonal functions pave the way for the full implementation of all the provisions of the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has been in force since it was signed December 14 last year.

In accordance with the Constitution, in full respect of state continuity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in order to ensure the continuity of state functioning, common institutions will now be established. Existing bodies will transfer all their functions to the new bodies once they have been set up. In the meantime, they will exist on a caretaker basis, engaging only in routine tasks and actions essential to fulfil existing obligations.

The Presidency is the highest state organ of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The new Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina assumes office at the certification of election results by the Provisional Election Commission, and exercises legal power as from its first meeting.

It was agreed in Geneva August 14 that the Presidency should meet in Sarajevo at the latest four days after the certification of election results.

It will then proceed with the setting up of the Council of Ministers. The existing Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina continues in a caretaker capacity until the Council of Ministers has been approved by the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly. In accordance with what was agreed in Geneva, it should be possible to conclude this process by late October, thus making it possible to initiate discussions also with the international financial institutions for economic reconstruction aid for all of Bosnia and Herzegovina in coming years.

The House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina should meet as soon as practically possible after the certification of election results. It is important that the Parlimentary Assemblies of the Federation and the Republika Srpska are set up and nominate their representatives in the House of Peoples.

The High Representative is the final authority in theatre regarding interpretation of matters related to the civilian implementation of the Peace Agreement. Final interpretation of transitional arrangements will be made in strict accordance with the provisions of the Peace Agreement.

In order to assist and support the efforts of the Office of the High Representative during this phase of constitutional implementation, we will have regular consultation and co-ordination meetings with representatives of the Contact Group countries on a senior diplomatic level in Sarajevo.