The High Representative and EU Special Representative, Valentin Inzko, met today in Sarajevo with Russian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov. The HR/EUSR and the Foreign Minister discussed the current political situation in BiH and the upcoming meeting of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council.

“The political situation is difficult and deteriorating with no sign of improvement”, said HR/EUSR Inzko.

Stating that BiH must be put back on the right path HR/EUSR Inzko said, “It is necessary to ensure that Bosnia and Herzegovina evolves into a stable and viable democracy on course for integration in the EU remains my priority. The immediate tasks are to ensure the full and effective application of the Dayton Peace Agreement, ensure the functionality of the state, and supervise the transition from OHR to EUSR through the completion of the 5+2 agenda set by the PIC’s Steering Board.”

The Steering Board of the PIC will meet in Sarajevo on 18 and 19 November to assess the status of these issues.

Minister Lavrov reiterated that Russia is committed to a successful OHR/EUSR transition so that Bosnia and Herzegovina can take full responsibility for its future.