Bosnia advances towards WTO membership

Also in attendance were Slovenia's Ambassador to Geneva, Anita Pipan, who chairs the WTO Working Party on Bosnia and Herzegovina, Maika Oshikawa, Director of the WTO's Accessions Division, and Lucija Ljubic, Minister-Counselor at Bosnia and Herzegovina's Mission in Geneva.

"WTO membership sends a strong message to investors and represents a significant step toward integrating Bosnia and Herzegovina's economy into the international trade system based on WTO rules and principles," Hasanovic emphasized, expressing gratitude for the WTO's continued assistance.

The meeting reviewed progress to date and identified remaining steps needed for Bosnia and Herzegovina to fulfill membership requirements. Special focus was placed on harmonizing legislation with international standards, facilitating easier market access for domestic products and services.

Ambassador Pipan indicated her readiness to convene the 14th Working Party meeting once the updated report is completed. Additionally, bilateral market access negotiations with Russia must be concluded and formalized with a bilateral agreement.

"Accession to the WTO requires commitment and cooperation from all institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I am confident that through collective efforts, we will achieve this goal and open new opportunities for the economic development of our country," Hasanovic stated.

He expressed his appreciation to the WTO delegation for their constructive dialogue and support, voicing optimism that Bosnia and Herzegovina will successfully complete the accession process and attain full membership by mid-2025, as reported by the Deputy Minister's Office.