Message of support from Slovenia for the accession to the EU of Bosnia and Herzegovina

While Golob made his first foreign visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina since June 2022, when he took office as prime minister, he was welcomed with an official ceremony in the capital Sarajevo.

In the joint press conference held after his meeting with the President of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Borjana Kristo, Golob said that lately the importance of solidarity and political cooperation in the international arena has increased.

Noting that Slovenia has invested in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Golob said: “The main purpose of my visit is to help Slovenia in the EU membership process, following Bosnia and Herzegovina’s candidate state status in December last year.”

Golob stated that he has two messages for Bosnia and Herzegovina: “First of all, the atmosphere in Brussels has changed and this is a historic opportunity. In the last 20 years, the enlargement policy has been stalled due to technical and administrative problems, but now it is considered a political problem. I believe that Bosnia and Herzegovina should take advantage of this historic opportunity to become a member. Secondly, Slovenia wants to be Bosnia and Herzegovina’s biggest ally, not just a friend. For this reason, we have expressed all kinds of technical, administrative, expert and financial assistance”.

Kristo also stated that Slovenia is among the top 3 foreign countries investing in Bosnia and Herzegovina and appreciated the friendship shown.

Emphasizing that his country received great support from Slovenia on its way to the EU, Kristo said: “I would like to thank Slovenia for its efforts to obtain the candidate country status of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This means a lot to our country because we are one step closer to the European family. Candidate status is an indication that Bosnia and Herzegovina has a place in the EU. We are planning to sign an agreement with Slovenia that will provide technical support and expert assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the EU accession process.”

Meanwhile, Golob will be received by members of the Presidential Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of his contacts in Sarajevo. Golob will also meet with representatives of the Bosnia and Herzegovina House of Representatives and the People’s Assembly. (AA)