EU Commissioner Kos: BiH one step away from unlocking €1 billion via Reform Agenda

She stated that during her visit to the country last week, she made it clear before the BiH Parliament that political inactivity has real consequences and warned that the country was at risk of missing opportunities offered by the European Growth Plan.

"The decision to adopt the Reform Agenda document is not only about the finances BiH will receive through the Growth Plan. It is about meeting citizens' expectations and delivering tangible benefits from European integration to citizens and businesses – no more fees when sending money from the EU to BiH, no more roaming charges, more business opportunities, modern schools for youth, and more affordable energy for households and companies. In all these areas, we will also improve regional cooperation with other Western Balkan countries," Kos said.

Commissioner Kos noted that during her visit, citizens told her they want a better life, and the EU Growth Plan can make that possible.

"But the key is reforms. Adopting the Agenda shows that Bosnia and Herzegovina can deliver results, and Europe is ready to provide support," she emphasised, reaffirming her personal and the European Commission's commitment to supporting BiH on its EU accession path, with the hope that next steps will be taken already this year.

The Council of Ministers of BiH adopted the Draft Reform Agenda on September 30, a document that is a precondition for withdrawing around €900 million in favourable loans and grants from the EU Growth Plan. This is part of a €6 billion package offered by the EU to regional countries to accelerate their development and integration.

Before the first tranche of funds is disbursed, the country must meet several conditions related to upholding the rule of law, democracy, institutional reforms, and the prevention of corruption and conflicts of interest, as well as taking necessary steps to ensure the funds are not misused.

Next week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to visit BiH, where she will meet with BiH authorities to discuss the adoption of this important document and the next steps and opportunities the EU expects from the country.