At the "Dialogue between Member States and Resident Coordinators" held today at the United Nations, H.E. Zlatko Lagumdzija, Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations, delivered a notable speech emphasizing his country’s achievements and the crucial role of the UN Resident Coordinator system in advancing the 2030 Agenda. His address highlighted the importance of cooperation with the UN, peacebuilding activities, and regional integration initiatives.

Lagumdzija reiterated Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to sustainable development and peace, thanking UN Resident Coordinator Ingrid Macdonald and the UN team in Bosnia for aligning local actions with global development goals. “Our progress would not be possible without the invaluable support of the UN system,” he stressed, underlining the impact of strategic collaboration with the UN.

He pointed to the establishment of the Peacebuilding Board in Sarajevo as a significant milestone, co-chaired by Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković and Ingrid Macdonald, which provides strategic direction for activities supported by the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund. Lagumdžija also noted the relevance of these efforts in the context of the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide on July 11, 2025, emphasizing the indispensable role of the UN country team in preparations for this commemoration.

Discussing regional cooperation, Lagumdzija highlighted that Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with Italy, leads the “Western Balkans 2030 Working Group”, aligning sustainable development goals with European priorities—an initiative described as vital for regional stability and economic growth.

He also announced the upcoming Bosnia and Herzegovina Economic Forum, set to take place in Sarajevo in October. “The participation of UNDP and the UN country team will enrich discussions on key topics, including growth plans, human capacity development, institutional strengthening, and sustainable financing,” Lagumdzija said, underlining the importance of these dialogues for European integration in the Western Balkans.

In conclusion, Lagumdzija called for continued and strengthened cooperation with the Resident Coordinator system and broader UN networks, urging member states to support the Secretary-General's appeal for additional funding and resources for this system. “We are determined to pursue sustainable development, peace, and prosperity—but we cannot achieve this alone,” he concluded.

This high-level dialogue, moderated by Oscar Fernandez-Taranco, Assistant Secretary-General from the Development Coordination Office, brought together key UN officials, including Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General, and representatives of member states. The interactive exchange allowed resident coordinators and diplomats to share insights and explore ways to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across various regions.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s active leadership and the dedication of its partners highlighted the importance of global cooperation in overcoming challenges and achieving the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.