Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan said that his country supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, warning that secessionist rhetoric and actions do not benefit anyone but harm all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Fidan met his Bosnian counterpart Elmedin Konakovic in Ankara on Thursday, emphasising good relations between the two countries but adding that there is room for strengthening relations and cooperation.

Noting that the trade exchange between Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina has reached one billion dollars, Fidan underlined that this amount should be increased to a level that reflects the real potential of the two countries.

“Bosnia and Herzegovina is the key country in the Balkans. The peace and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina are important for all countries in the region. Turkey is among the countries with the largest number of soldiers in the international military mission tasked with preserving peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition, our other contributions in the field of defense will continue in the coming period,” said Fidan, noting that his country approaches issues in Bosnia and Herzegovina with an honest and constructive manner from an objective perspective.

He also emphasised Turkey's support for the territorial integrity, unity and sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and underlined:

“Secessionist rhetoric and actions do not benefit anyone and are to the detriment of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina”.

Fidan added that issues in BiH should be resolved by local politicians through negotiations and dialogue, without external interventions.