HR Schmidt: “Rule of law and strong institutions are key to BiH’s EU path”

High Representative Christian Schmidt met with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul today in Sarajevo for a substantive exchange on the latest political developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans region. Their conversation focused on the current reform dynamics and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on BiH’s path toward EU accession.

HR Schmidt stressed that credible progress toward EU integration requires not only political will but also strengthened institutional capacities, full respect for the rule of law, and a commitment to democratic processes: “These elements are indispensable for any country aspiring to join the European Union and for ensuring long-term stability and prosperity for its citizens.”

Foreign Minister Wadephul declared that, given that the 30^th anniversary of Dayton was close, it was his wish to start his visit to the region in Sarajevo. He underlined Germany’s support both for BiH’s EU-perspective and for the Dayton-Structures, notably the OHR and HR Schmidt personally. The role of the OHR in preserving stability and working towards institutional functionality was key for BiH’s EU-path. At the same time, Wadephul continued, local actors had to carry out reforms themselves and engage in the spirit of compromise.

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