Čović: Most countries wouldn't allow foreign influence

The 38th regular session of the BiH Presidency was held in Sarajevo today. After the session, Presidency member Dragan Čović addressed the journalists, writes the Patria News Agency. 

- We will soon resolve the issue of property registration. On September 13th, we will provide more precise data, but the Report suggests that optimism has returned and that work has begun which should have been done four or five months ago - Čović told reporters.

When asked by journalists how he commented on the statements of Austrian Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz about paying Muslim women in Sarajevo and Pristina to wear headscarves, Čović said:

- I am not the person to comment on anyone's statements. I don't think any administration has such a strong influence in BiH. We leave room for influence ourselves; we close the space for influences and manipulations on certain topics. An agreement with the Islamic Community is being prepared, which would clearly define the relations between BiH and the IC regarding attire, as well as other forms of behavior. There will always be messages from outside, I think it's up to us. We need to strengthen our common stance, and then we too will be able to send a message from this podium - said Čović.

He added that most countries would not allow foreign influence.

- Most countries would not allow themselves such influences. We have what we have: the registration of military property, or rather, motivating those we are talking to about the MAP. The second topic is the Pelješac Bridge; I would say that we are acting irresponsibly towards BiH in our great love for BiH and protection of interests. The Pelješac Bridge, I think we have said everything through our institutions. I think the relevant ministry has done its job very clearly. What I know is that all the conditions we set for the Republic of Croatia have been met from that side, and what I also know is that the Republic of Croatia, with all due respect to BiH, is continuing this significant project in a correct manner. This project is too significant for BiH as well - Čović stated.

Čović emphasized the importance of the visit of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić to BiH.

- In a phone conversation with Vučić, it was clearly pointed out that this visit has special significance. We haven't had a Serbian President on an official visit for a long time. This opens up many possibilities - Čović believes.

Regarding the decisions of BiH institutions and their implementation, the Presidency member and HDZ leader said:

- Our skill lies in how we respect the positions of BiH institutions. We have nothing to discuss about that. These are decisions of institutions; someone may think differently. I fear that they will slow down our decisions towards the MAP due to their political path. I think two or three locations would be enough for us. They will be ready when they are ready; we should not rush and spoil the atmosphere - concluded Dragan Čović.