In a powerful address at the closing plenary session of the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dr. Denis Becirovic, emphasized the urgent need for European unity in the face of new geopolitical threats. He spoke about the impact of Russia's aggression on Ukraine and the broader implications for Europe.

“Russia's aggression against Ukraine has caused tectonic geopolitical changes in Europe and the world,” Becirovic stated. “This aggression has dramatically increased the need for the European Union to strengthen its influence in its immediate neighborhood. Therefore, one of the most important questions is how to prepare the European Union and the European continent for new threats.”

He stressed that European unity should be built on shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. “Defending these values is not the duty of one state or one organization alone. It is a shared mission of all democratic countries, which entails cooperation and solidarity,” he said.

Becirovic warned of the dangers posed by revived expansionist policies. “The specters of the past have been reawakened. Russia's aggression has revived the politics of territorial expansionism,” he noted. “Yesterday, Bosnia and Herzegovina was a victim of territorial expansionism, today it is Ukraine, and tomorrow it could be any country if we do not stop this evil.”

He highlighted the two options facing European states: “The first option is to establish inter-state relations modeled after those of the EU. This means peace, security, and development in the shared interest. The second option is to adopt the Russian model of relations towards neighbors. This is a path to great misfortune and tragedy.”

Becirovic urged European leaders to learn from the past and focus on a united future. “In Europe, the Iron Curtain has once again been lowered. Before us lies a long and difficult struggle for the salvation of democracy,” he said. “In the new circumstances, no one can remain neutral. Neutrality is another name for supporting Russia.”

He reiterated Bosnia and Herzegovina's commitment to democratic values. “Bosnia and Herzegovina belongs to the free and democratic part of the world,” Becirovic declared. “Together, let us strengthen security and democracy. These are the two pillars on which a stable society is founded.”

Becirovic concluded by calling for united efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, civil society, and independent media. “Our efforts must focus on strengthening democratic institutions by supporting reform processes, civil society, and independent media. Through responsible, united, and proactive action, we can enhance security on the European continent,” he said.

“Let us show zero tolerance for any form of aggression and violation of human rights and freedoms.”