The United States Ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood, addressed the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday evening during the extraordinary session called by Russia. In his speech he pointed out that all BiH leaders should move towards Euro-Atlantic integration, adding that his country will continue to support the Office of the High Representative.

He pointed out that the UNSC session is an attempt to use the Council to emphasize the ethno-nationalist threat coming from one side.

“The US encourages all governments to work together and take advantage of EU decisions to open negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. All leaders should move towards Euro-Atlantic integration. We encourage avoiding ethno-nationalistic agendas and reaching a transparent administration. Destabilizing actions in BiH are contrary to Euro-Atlantic integration and the Dayton Peace Agreement”, he stated.

Then he added:

“The continuation of the actions of some leaders, including Republika Srpska (RS) entity President Milorad Dodik, especially the denial of genocide, is something that causes concern. Srebrenica was not a mistake, it is an inexorable fact that genocide was committed in Srebrenica. This was established by international courts. We welcome the decision of the High Representative to ban persons who committed genocide from participating in the election. It shouldn't be a controversy. Politicians who insist on divisions are protecting their own interests. The RS authorities and Dodik, for example, are accelerating steps to undermine institutions and call for the dissolution of the state. His dangerous actions and secessionist rhetoric threaten the peace and stability of the region.”

He also pointed out that the US appreciates what the High Representative in BiH is doing.

“Sanctions against Dodik and those enabling his anti-Dayton and corrupt actions will continue in the future. We appreciate what the High Representative is doing, and that is key to letting the international community know what is going on. The Office of the High Representative has a key role in ensuring that the civilian aspects of Dayton are implemented, it is key to ensuring that key institutions, including the judiciary, are functioning, regardless of attempts of certain politicians to undermine it. Until BiH meets all the criteria, the Office must remain. The USA will support the sovereignty, integrity and multi-ethnic character of BiH. We support Dayton, which is the foundation for peace, and we will fight against anti-Dayton activities. We support the OHR defending Dayton and fighting ethno-nationalism and corruption,” Wood said.