European Union High Representative Josep Borrell met with Bosnia Presidency chair Zeljka Cvijanovic, and Presidency members Zeljko Komsic and Denis Becirovic in Brussels on Wednesday, where he reiterated the EU's commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU path.

According to the statement issued by the EU External Action Service, Borrell underlined that the granting of EU candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina in December last year was an important milestone, which confirmed the European future of the country.

“He urged the Presidency to advance reforms and ensure functionality of the country and its institutions, for the benefit of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He rejected irresponsible rhetoric and actions, aimed at undermining the unity and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and stressed that such behaviour has no place in the European Union,” the statement said.

Glad to welcome #BiH Presidency on their first joint visit to Brussels.

Candidate status opened a new chapter in our relations. Time to move forward on EU agenda & reforms for the benefit of BiH citizens.

We will work together to advance BiH’s EU path.https://t.co/0uemJIZvGF pic.twitter.com/XMAXRKuLeS

— Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) February 15, 2023

Borrell also reiterated that the EU remains ready to provide support to the country, drawing notably attention to EU assistance for the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including on demining, under the European Peace Facility.

“Against the backdrop of Russia’s illegal and unprovoked aggression against Ukraine HR/VP Borrell stressed the importance to build a democratic, stable, and peaceful continent with respect for rules and international law. He praised BiH for condemning the aggression and aligning to the EU’s unprecedented sanctions against the Russian leadership and its war economy,” according to the statement.

He stressed that the EU counted on Bosnia and Herzegovina to continue to stand with the EU on foreign policy positions and decisions, in line with the country’s strategic choice of EU integration.

“The EU, on the other side, will also continue to stand with the people of Bosnia of Herzegovina, in particular in challenging times, such as through the Energy Support Package, to which BiH has been allocated €70 million to support vulnerable households,” it was emphasised.

The officials agreed to remain in close touch and work together to advance on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path, to contribute to a better future for all in the country, in particular the younger generation.