The High Representative and EU Special Representative Miroslav Lajčák met Ali Babacan, Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs in Ankara today.
The HR/EUSR set out the difficult political situation in BiH and outline the progress that the country has made to meeting the five conditions and two objectives set by the Peace Implementation Council in February.
“Despite progress in most of the priorities set by the PIC, BiH’s authorities have not found a way to apportion state property nor have they come to an agreement legally defining the status of Brcko,” Lajčák said.
Miroslav Lajčák and Minister Babacanagreed that Bosnia and Herzegovina must meet in full the conditions and objectives set by the Peace Implementation Council to enable OHR-EUSR transition.
The Turkish Foreign Minister reiterated that the country’s EU perspective is the key strategic goal for Bosnia and Herzegovina and the whole region, with NATO membership this will provide stability, prosperity and guarantees of security for all citizens. Miroslav Lajčák and Minister Babacanagreed that only peace and stability can provide an environment that will benefit all.
Turkey’s Foreign Minister the High Representative/EU Special Representative underlined that there can be no question over BiH’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The High Representative/EU Special Representative was visiting Ankara ahead of the next meeting of the PIC Steering Board due to take place at the end of November.