European Union sets negotiation date for Bosnia
European Union (EU) Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi praised the progress Bosnia and Herzegovina has made in one year, stating that membership negotiations could begin in March 2024.
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Varhelyi made a joint statement to the press with Borjana Kristo, Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, following the EU-Bosnia and Herzegovina High-Level Political Dialogue Meeting held in Brussels.
Stating that the one-year progress made by Bosnia and Herzegovina shows that the decision to grant candidate status was the right one, Varhelyi said, "We believe that Bosnia and Herzegovina can do more and better."
Varhelyi noted that rapid progress has been seen in reforms in almost every field, and that he is pleased to witness that EU membership is the priority for all institutions and political parties in the country.
Expressing that there is a major change in approach in the functioning of all institutions across the country, Varhelyi said, "I think we should all appreciate the dedicated work of the government."
Varhelyi assessed, "When we update the developments made by Bosnia and Herzegovina next time, let's say in March, the Council may take the decision to start membership negotiations."
EXPECTS A DATE BY THE END OF THE YEAR
Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Borjana Kristo stated that she came to Brussels with a delegation including many officials from her country, adding that this interest is an indicator of Bosnia and Herzegovina's absolute commitment to the EU path.
Noting that they believe they can meet all the prerequisites to strengthen the dialogue between institutions and political leaders in her country, Kristo said, "We expect Bosnia and Herzegovina to receive a final date by the end of the year for the start of membership negotiations with the EU."
Kristo expressed that accession to the EU family can only be achieved through lasting stability and prosperity in her country, the implementation of reforms, coordinated action by authorities at all levels, and respect for the constitution.
Council of Ministers Chairwoman Kristo thanked Varhelyi for his support for her country on the EU path.