Speeches

I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak to all of you today about the current situation in BiH. Bosnia is a very special project for all of us. It is a multiethnic country in Europe faced with a three-fold task – first the country itself must design its own national identity; second its people must overcome the horrors of a civil war [...]

It is a great honor for us that you are all here. It is also my honor to thank those who have contributed to this magnificent project, starting with former U.S. Secretary of State Albright and the U.S. Government, which committed most of the funds, and the European Union for contributions of equipment. The UNA Construction Company – represen [...]

We came here today to address the challenges facing businesspeople in BiH and to find ways of overcoming those challenges. Why is this a priority? Because when businesses grow they generate prosperity, they create jobs, they deliver goods and services that help raise living standards. Everybody benefits. The return of refugees to their homes and th [...]

Before I begin my speech, I’d like to say one thing. I cannot and will not predict the outcome of a criminal investigation. But I want to state clearly that I believe the decision by the RS Minister of Finance, Milenko Vracar, to resign yesterday evening was an honourable and brave political act.

Today’s ceremony is not simply about appointing individuals to responsible and challenging positions. It is about a broader issue, an issue that cuts to the heart of everything we have, together, sought to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina since the end of the war. It is about protecting the people of this country, protecting their rights and prot [...]

I have the honour of representing the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lord Paddy Ashdown. The High Representative is personally committed to the success of the Stability Pact and will do everything in his power to promote its initiatives in BiH and to ensure that BiH is a constructive and active player in the region. However, since [...]

There are sound reasons to invest in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the medium-term impact of a well-implemented investment cycle can be profound. Prosperity in this country is not a mirage; it is not a distant dream; it is achievable within five to ten years. When I use the word prosperity, I mean exactly that - not sustainability, not subsistence, b [...]

I want to tell you this evening what I believe we can achieve together because you have a right to know what to expect from me. I am your servant, quite as much as I am the servant of the international community.

It’s great to be back. And a great honour to be taking over from my distinguished predecessor, Wolfgang Petritsch. He has left us with a foundation to build on and, with your help, I intend to build on it. My wife Jane and I are really looking forward to making our home here for the next few years, and I am looking forward to working with you [...]

It is a short farewell address and I hope you will forgive me if I switch to the local language. But please be assured that my words are not only addressed to the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also to you - for all the extraordinary hard work you have put in during my time here. I know you will give all your support to Lord Paddy Ashdown. [...]