European Union High Representative Josep Borrell expressed concern over the rise in nationalistic and divisive rhetoric in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and urged Bosnian Presidency members to engage in dialogue and work in the interest of citizens by lowering political tensions and promoting reconciliation.

The EU's senior official talked to the members of tripartite Presidency, Milorad Dodik, Sefik Dzaferovic and Zeljko Komsic on Tuesday, and reaffirmed the Union's “unwavering commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU perspective as a single, united, and sovereign country.” He expressed readiness to continue facilitating and contributing to these efforts.

According to the statement by the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Borrell urged the leaders to “seize the opportunity of the non-electoral year to show concrete progress on the implementation of the key reform priorities set out in the European Commission’s Opinion, underlining in particular the electoral/constitutional reform and advancing the rule of law.”

“He urged the Presidency members to engage in dialogue with each other and foster an environment conducive to unity, consensus and constructive engagement in the interest of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, by lowering political tension and promoting reconciliation,” the statement said.

The Presidency members thanked the High Representative for the partnership and active role in the reform processes. They expressed commitment to developing good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation as well as support to the country's regional initiatives in line with the principles applied in the EU.

The Presidency said in a statement following the meeting that the Western Balkans will be among the top issues discussed at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council session scheduled for May 10 in Brussels.