Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vasily Nebenzya, who is hosting a meeting of Bosnia's top political leaders, said the meeting was not aimed at diminishing the importance of the country's state institutions.

He expressed hope the talks would contribute to a constructive and open dialogue.

“We did not by any means intend to diminish the importance of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina but the format of this meeting allows us to invite unofficial representatives too,” said the ambassador.

The leaders of Bosnia's main Croat and Serb political parties, Dragan Covic and Milorad Dodik, are taking part in an ‘Arria-Formula’ meeting of the UN Security Council members, discussing the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina in light of the 25th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Agreement. Bosniak leader, Bakir Izetbegovic, turned down the invitation arguing that Bosnia's institutions are being ignored.

“Unfortunately a representative of one political party, Bakir Izetbegovic, decided not to take part in the meeting but we are glad he sent a letter,” said Nebenzya at the meeting opening.

He stressed it was important to hear what they have to say because “they represent the voice of people as the political party leaders.”