EU Delegation in BiH denies Višković: He misrepresented Sattler's words, EU supports OHR and Schmidt

(Patria) - The Prime Minister of Republika Srpska, Radovan Višković, yesterday, after a meeting with the Head of the European Union Delegation/European Union Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Johann Sattler, misrepresented both Ambassador Sattler's words and the European Union's stance on the Office of the High Representative (OHR), it was announced today from the EU Delegation in BiH.

"The European Union supports the mission of High Representative Schmidt and his Office. Threats to High Representative Schmidt, the campaign to undermine his legitimacy by the leadership of RS, the undermining of the constitutional order of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and divisive actions and rhetoric are unacceptable.

During the meeting, Ambassador Sattler recalled the long-standing position of the European Union, namely that fulfilling the 5+2 Agenda will be necessary on the European path, which will enable the closure of the OHR. In principle, extensive international supervision and the use of executive powers are incompatible with EU membership. Executive powers are also a last resort.

Ambassador Sattler also emphasized that the criminalization of defamation, as well as the Draft Law restricting the freedom of civil society, represent major steps backward for fundamental freedoms, which are a key element of the 14 key priorities. He strongly called for the Draft Law on Civil Society to be immediately withdrawn from the legislative procedure.

The European Union Ambassador also called on Prime Minister Višković to ensure that the current opportunities provided by the new momentum of European Union enlargement are seized. The European Union expects support for reforms that will enable progress on the path to the EU, such as the Law on Courts and the Law on Conflict of Interest, and the introduction of electronic signatures.

Reforms to strengthen democracy and human rights, the fight against corruption, improving the business climate, and supporting the green and digital transition are the only path to a more stable and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina and a future in the European Union," it was announced.