Konakovic in Vienna pushes for EU fast track, touting energy security and regional cooperation

The gathering focused on pivotal areas for the region's future: upcoming priorities in the Western Balkans integration process, energy, security, and deepening European integration. Notable attendees included EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the Director of the Energy Community Secretariat, Artur Lorkowski.

Firm commitment to European values

In his address, Minister Konakovic reaffirmed Bosnia’s unwavering commitment to core European values: democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and the fight against corruption. He stressed that these principles are more than just formal prerequisites for EU membership; they form the very basis of BiH’s vision as a modern, resilient, and inclusive state, poised to actively contribute to a united and prosperous Europe.

Konakovic underscored that accelerated European integration hinges on regional cooperation, stability, and solidarity. He expressed BiH’s support for the Joint Statement from the meeting, which highlighted the geopolitical importance of the EU enlargement policy for collective security and progress. The Minister also backed conclusions aimed at including Western Balkan partners in EU Foreign Affairs Council meetings and increasing visits by high-level EU officials to the region.

Countering disinformation and empowering youth

Addressing challenges to the integration process, Konakovic pointed to the urgent need to combat disinformation and false narratives concerning the EU and its enlargement process. He welcomed open dialogue with civil society organizations and emphasized that young people must be central to all European integration efforts.

He elaborated that through dedicated education, mobility, cultural exchange, and digital programmes, youth will gain the opportunity to actively shape the European future of the Western Balkans. For BiH, Konakovic stated, EU integration does not signify a loss of identity but rather its strengthening, contributing to a diverse and resilient Europe.

Concrete steps on the reform path

Speaking on tangible reform activities, Minister Konakovic noted that Bosnia submitted its Reform Agenda under the EU’s Growth Plan to the European Commission in September. Furthermore, the signing of the Frontex status agreement has facilitated the deployment of over 100 officers from Frontex’s Standing Corps to support the BiH Border Police.

Konakovic expressed optimism that the swift adoption of two critical, EU-related laws and the appointment of a chief negotiator would soon allow the country to officially open EU accession negotiations.

Strategic focus on energy security

On the subjects of energy, security, and EU integration, Minister Konakovic highlighted BiH's substantial potential to enhance energy independence. This is to be achieved through diversifying energy sources, modernizing infrastructure, regulatory reforms, and intensified regional cooperation.

Crucially, he underlined the strategic importance of the Southern Interconnection project, which is vital for gas source diversification, reducing reliance on existing routes, and strengthening the country's energy security. He specifically acknowledged the strong backing for this project from the US administration, which views it as a policy priority toward Bosnia. The Minister concluded that implementing the Southern Interconnection would not only secure BiH’s energy supply but also boost its strategic role in regional gas transit toward Central and Eastern Europe.