Cvijanović with Rutte: There are no real security threats in BiH

(Patria) - The security of Bosnia and Herzegovina is important for the region and the alliance, and we will not allow the hard-won peace to be jeopardized – said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte after a meeting with the Chairperson of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željka Cvijanović in Brussels.

As he emphasized, NATO has been committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina for almost three decades, reports FENA.

– As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Dayton Agreement, our commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina and regional stability remains firm – Rutte stressed, emphasizing that a stable and secure Bosnia and Herzegovina and a peaceful Western Balkans are a strategic interest of the Alliance.

Rutte praised the reforms to date and emphasized the importance of NATO's assistance. He also pointed out that NATO continues to work in cooperation with the European Union through the EUFOR Althea operation.

He called on political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina to work together in the spirit of reconciliation and to preserve the functionality of state institutions.

Cvijanović emphasized that the conversation with Rutte covered all issues, expressing satisfaction that there is a commitment from both sides to continue good cooperation. She emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina appreciates NATO's long-standing support in capacity building and security reforms.

– It is very important to emphasize that there are no real security threats in the country. Everything that happens within Bosnia and Herzegovina relates to political issues that are resolved within the political arena, in a democratic and constructive manner. I believe that this is precisely the essence of democracy – to allow everyone to express their views and concerns – Cvijanović underlined.

She also thanked Rutte for his stance on the Dayton Agreement.

– This is the agreement on which my country is based, which enables its functioning and survival. Thank you for supporting it, as well as the European integration process. I consider it extremely important to hear such confirmation from you. I am convinced that our cooperation will continue to be successful – Cvijanović concluded.

Rutte emphasized that NATO's support for BiH remains strong, adding that peace and security in BiH are important for the Alliance and the entire region.

- We support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH. A stable BiH is our strategic interest. We will discuss how to strengthen cooperation, the Armed Forces of BiH, and defense. These efforts are for all your citizens and align with the EU integration process that we support – Rutte stated.