Von der Leyen: BiH is at the doorstep of the EU, but key reforms still await

After meeting with the state presidency earlier in the day, Von der Leyen held talks with Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers Borjana Kristo, who welcomed her to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Kristo said she had informed the European Commission president about the decision regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina’s chief negotiator, reiterating the country’s clear commitment to EU membership.

“We must clearly state that we want the European process. I remind all political actors that there is no opposition to the EU path. That’s where we belong. We must not use excuses as a form of alibi politics. Ahead of the Berlin Process meeting in London, unfortunately, we have still not reached an agreement on the stability and movement accord with personal IDs. I believe we will reach a deal, as this is one of the pillars of the Growth Plan,” said Kristo.

She emphasized that she “will not grow tired” on the European path and will “do everything,” no matter how difficult, to deliver results. “I am convinced that on this path we will continue to have the support of our friends, like President Von der Leyen,” Kristo added.

“Bosnia and Herzegovina has come a long way and now stands at the doorstep of the EU. A year and a half ago, the European Council made a historic decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina, a milestone to be proud of. Congratulations on submitting the Reform Agenda—now it’s our turn to assess it. We will work together on this. Ultimately, the Growth Plan should open the door to billions of euros in investments,” Von der Leyen continued.

The European Commission president stressed that the next priority is to hold the first intergovernmental conference, for which it is necessary to pass key laws and appoint a chief negotiator.

“This must be a person who enjoys the trust of everyone, but most importantly, the appointment must happen without delay so that the work can begin. Enlargement is not only a political issue—it is, above all, a matter of the heart, of will, and of the people’s voice—and that must be respected,” Von der Leyen said-