US Embassy: Referendum represents a violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement

The US Embassy is alarmed by the direction in which the planned referendum is leading the Republika Srpska entity, as well as by the threats it poses to the security, stability and prosperity of BiH, it was announced from the US Embassy.

- We are against this referendum and any preparations for it because they represent a violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement and because we fear the consequences it will have for citizens in Republika Srpska and throughout BiH. We have engaged relevant departments and agencies of the US Government to decide on an appropriate response to those responsible for this political provocation. We are working closely with the EU Mission and the OHR on taking next steps.

We are encouraged by the fact that a legitimate debate is taking place in RS about the roots of this political maneuver as well as the motives behind it. This open discourse on the rift between the corrupt forces leading the decision-making process in RS and what is truly in the best interest of its citizens is an indicator of a vigorous and transparent democratic system that can and should exist in BiH.

Nothing good can come from this referendum. The future of this country and all its citizens lies in the continuous process of EU integration. This goal is entirely achievable and we want to work with the citizens of Republika Srpska on a real improvement of their quality of life. It is now up to the leadership of this entity to decide either for progress or for political and economic isolation, the statement says.