Danish Minister reaffirms support for BiH’s EU path during first official visit

“I’m very pleased to be here today. It’s my first time in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I truly feel among friends. I’ve had several very constructive meetings and I’m satisfied with the outcomes,” Bjerre told reporters.

She highlighted Denmark’s continued commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans region, underlined by the recent reopening of the Danish embassy in Sarajevo.

“In preparation for Denmark’s upcoming presidency of the European Union, I have visited all the countries in the Western Balkans. Minister Konakovic and I had an open and constructive discussion on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path and the complex political situation in the country. While I can’t claim to understand every nuance, I now have a much deeper understanding of your country,” she stated.

Bjerre emphasised that current geopolitical developments have further underscored the importance of EU enlargement.

“An ambitious enlargement policy, based on the merit principle, should result in a politically stronger European Union. Enlargement has gained renewed momentum and will be one of the priorities of Denmark’s EU presidency. Our goal is to support BiH’s European aspirations for the benefit of its citizens,” she said.

The Minister welcomed the high level of public support in BiH for EU membership but stressed that the path to accession requires tangible reforms.

“EU accession demands serious reforms. We support the opening of accession negotiations once Bosnia and Herzegovina meets the required conditions. Unfortunately, it’s clear that the country is not yet at that stage. Domestic political actors must now take the lead, key reform laws need to be passed, and a chief negotiator appointed. All criteria set by the European Commission must be fulfilled,” Bjerre said.

She also expressed particular concern over recent political developments in the Republika Srpska entity.

“We are concerned about recent unconstitutional actions by the entity’s leadership. Denmark remains firmly committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a unified and multiethnic state,” the minister concluded.