Bosnia’s international administrator, High Representative Valentin Inzko, said on Monday he fully supports the coordinated actions of all levels of government in the country aimed at preventing the further outbreak of COVID-19 in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
According to the statement by the Office of the High Representative, Inzko “is convinced that the authorities will undertake additional measures and further strengthen their cooperation and coordination if required by the situation on the ground.”
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The statement reflects a shift in attitude in defragmented Bosnia and Herzegovina, where different levels of government rarely cooperate smoothly and argue who is in charge of what and who has the last word.
Inzko, therefore, praised the level of coordination between the levels of Bosnia’s government.
“It is reassuring to see that all levels of government – state, entity, cantonal and municipal, from the State Presidency and the Council of Ministers downwards – are taking preventative measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 and maintain the public health.“
The rapid reaction and coordinated approach of all levels of government are essential to protect citizens and combat the epidemic, Inzko’s statement said.
“It is reassuring to see that the country can function under extremely challenging circumstances with the politicians putting the interests of the citizens first. Now is the time to put differences aside and maintain the country fully functional,” said the High Representative.
Inzko called upon all citizens to act responsibly and to strictly follow the guidelines and instructions issued by relevant authorities and praised the engagement of medical staff, police officers, Armed Forces, and many others.
“In these challenging circumstances, we all have to work together in the spirit of solidarity and the best tradition of this country,” Inzko appealed.“I wish to express my gratitude to every single citizen who contributes to the efforts to prevent further outbreak. Through the joint efforts of medical experts and responsible institutions, this crisis can be overcome,” he said.
