Doris Pack, Member of European Parliament (MEP) and Chair of the Delegation for relations with the countries South-east Europe, is presently on a two-day visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Today, she spoke to university students in Sarajevo about the European integration process and what it required of BiH.

In her introductory remarks, Ms. Pack discussed the Instruments for Pre-Accession (IPA) funding and other EU assistance mechanisms for BiH and other Western Balkan countries, emphasizing that the EU has a strong interest in BiH’s progress and ultimate membership.  Yet she pointed out that only BiH can fulfil the necessary EU criteria, as is the case with all other EU aspirants; external actors cannot do this in its stead. Ms. Pack highlighted the need for political will: “Your politicians must reach consensus about key questions for this country. Compromise is also a key word in EU and without that nothing can be done.” 

In her expansive 90-minute discussion with students, Ms. Pack encouraged them to think about what they could do for their country, how to overcome ethnic barriers, and how universities could press politicians to meet EU conditions. Students asked Ms. Pack about the reforms required under Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Stabilization and Association Agreement with the EU. She was also asked whether the fact that the Lisbon Treaty has not yet been ratified by all EU members poses an obstacle to BiH’s potential to join.  Pack responded that, “The enlargement process goes step by step. This process requires time and for BiH the most important thing is to fulfil its obligations on her road to EU.” According to Pack, membership for BiH is at least five years away.

During her two-day visit, MEP Pack also met with Meddžida Krešo, President of the BiH Court, Milorad Novković, President of the HJPC, and Kemal Kozarić, Governor of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later today, she will meet representatives of NGOs and the business community, as well as representatives of international community. On the second and final day of her visit, Ms. Pack will meet Franjo Komarica, Roman Catholic Bishop of Banja Luka.

Doris Pack addressing BiH students