Bosnia and Herzegovina should open borders for all countries under the condition that travellers possess a negative Covid-19 test, Foreign Affairs Minister Bisera Turkovic said on Thursday.

The statement comes two days after the Bosnian government allowed entry for the citizens of the European Union and the Schengen area with a negative coronavirus test not older than 48 hours.

This is a risk worth taking, according to the minister.

“In my opinion, the borders should be open for everyone under the condition of having a Covid-19 test, meaning that we welcome healthy people and I see no reason why anyone willing to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina shouldn't be allowed to do so,” said Turkovic.

Asked if the decision on border opening should expand to some other nationalities, including Turkey, the USA and the Middle East countries, the FM said she hoped this would happen soon.

Bosnia and Herzegovina needs tourists but also its own citizens to come.

“We are all witnessing how much our economy suffers, as well as our tourism sector, how the stores, streets and picnic areas are empty. Maybe it's a risk but it's a risk worth taking. Two months will be over soon and we will be in a situation where we have no incomes at all and those who rely on tourism will have to close their businesses and hotels,” said Turkovic.