15 May 2024
Thank you, President,
I also thank High Representative Schmidt for his briefing and I welcome the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr Denis Becirovic and the representatives of Serbia, Croatia and the European Union to the meeting.
Malta welcomes and commends the good progress achieved by Bosnia and Herzegovina which led to the opening of EU accession negotiations by the European Council on 22 March 2024. This is a historic step for the country and its people towards achieving the goal of EU membership. Malta will continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European integration process.
In this context, we appreciate the positive reforms already undertaken. Furthermore, we maintain our encouragement for Bosnia and Herzegovina to persist in its efforts and uphold its commitment to further reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s constitutional, electoral, and judicial frameworks.
Reforms that prioritise inclusivity and uphold the rule of law, including the representation of women in all government institutions are important. We urge authorities to implement credible and genuine measures to uphold human rights and freedom of expression in Bosnia-Herzegovina. It is also essential to recognize the vital role played by free media and civil society.
President,
Malta reiterates its steadfast support for the Dayton Agreement and urges all parties within Bosnia and Herzegovina to fully adhere to its principles. Furthermore, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the mission and mandate of the High Representative.
EUFOR-Althea has an important role in maintaining security and stability and its presence is crucial for preserving the present stable situation.
The presence of inflammatory rhetoric and divisive actions that undermine Bosnia and Herzegovina’s territorial integrity and the Dayton Peace Agreement is a matter of significant concern.
Reconciliation stands as a cornerstone for achieving lasting peace.
Denial of genocide not only disrespects the memory of victims but also impedes genuine healing. Malta underscores the importance of the country’s leadership refraining from inflammatory rhetoric and divisive actions, which pose significant threats to peace and stability in the region.