Ambassador Cormack: BiH citizens must loudly state what they need

U.S. Ambassador to BiH Maureen E. Cormack held a lecture for students at the University of Sarajevo Rectorate on the topic "Policy Dialogue with Future Leaders", writes the BiH news agency Patria

Cormack also stated on this occasion that the Dayton Agreement enabled the functioning of the state, but that political will is needed for its operation.

She emphasized once again that the U.S. respected and respects BiH as a sovereign state composed of two entities and Brčko District, within internationally recognized borders.

She specifically addressed the citizens of BiH and called on them to engage in the reform process by loudly stating what they need.

- The citizens of BiH will achieve more by working together in the spirit of the common good than by fighting each other. We recognize the structures created under Dayton, but that does not mean that citizens cannot foster a common vision for the future – said Cormack.

Ambassador Cormack also touched upon public enterprises.

- My question to you is how do we get those who have control and interest in these companies to abandon this practice for the common good – adding that the stories she heard about corruption are frightening.

- The climate of impunity must end for BiH to move forward.

Addressing young leaders, Cormack said she hopes many plan to be leaders of this beautiful country in the future.

- And if that is the case, I hope our exchange of views today will be open and honest.

After the lecture on the topic "Policy Dialogue with Future Leaders", in which she spoke, among other things, about the key problems facing the country, students had many questions for Ambassador Cormack. They were interested in her opinion on the role of the international community in BiH, as well as the role of the OHR in the country. One student wanted to know what America's economic interest is in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Responding to the question, Ambassador Cormack emphasized that the U.S. interest is for BiH to be an economically stable and prosperous country. Another student wanted to know how the Embassy helps projects in the field of education. There were many topics and little time, so it was agreed that this conversation would continue.