10/26/2010 OHR

HR Inzko thanks Japan for its strong commitment to BiH

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As a member of the Peace Implementation Council and major aid donor, and with its enormous capacity for manufacturing and trade, Japan is in a unique position to develop its partnership with Bosnia and Herzegovina, High Representative Valentin Inzko told a conference in Tokyo today.

The HR was briefing Deputy Foreign Minister of Japan Yutaka Banno and members of the Japan Institute of International Affairs, on the political situation in BiH in the wake of the 3 October general elections.The HR said that now is the time for BiH political leaders to focus on rapid government formation and on implementing reforms to boost the Euro-Atlantic integration process. ”Citizens expect the politicians they have elected to bring about a fresh start. The International Community stands ready to support them.”

High Representative Inzko thanked Japan for its crucial role in peace implementation in Bosnia over the past 15 years. Emphasizing BiH’s economic potential, HR Inzko invited Japan to further take advantage of the growing commercial opportunities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “BiH lies at the heart of a larger Southeast European market of 55 million consumers – it is a natural partner for Japanese companies.”

The full text of the HR’s speech will be uploaded at www.ohr.int