German Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina Thomas Fitschen expressed Germany's growing concern over the political rhetoric emanating from Banja Luka, the administrative centre of the Serb-dominated Republika Srpska (RS) entity, which he said undermines Bosnia as a state and openly entertains secessionist ideas.

“In 2023, we reached a point where it became increasingly difficult to justify Germany approving substantial state loans for projects in an entity that might soon break away from the country. As a result, we suspended four major infrastructure projects in line with agreed contractual rules,” Fitschen said in an interview for the New Year’s edition of Dnevni Avaz Daily.

Despite this, he noted that Germany continues to support various initiatives in Republika Srpska (RS) that directly benefit its residents. These include constructing housing for returnees through the Regional Housing Program, providing advanced prosthetics for landmine victims, demining efforts in several municipalities, and renovating the barracks of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He emphasized that German support in RS remains ongoing.

“Every euro or dollar spent by organizations like the EU, OSCE, UNDP, the UN Peacebuilding Fund, or other UN entities in Bosnia and Herzegovina includes contributions from Germany,” Fitschen pointed out.

He also highlighted Germany's strong bilateral economic cooperation with BiH, noting that the recently agreed framework for 2024/25 includes a record investment of 157 million euros.

“Completed projects such as building wind farms, fostering employment opportunities, and implementing a circular economy are directly improving the lives of Bosnia and Herzegovina's citizens. This clearly demonstrates our commitment to standing with you,” Fitschen concluded.