Eric Nelson: US remains guarantor of BiH's territorial integrity

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - US Ambassador to BiH Eric George Nelson officially addressed the media in Sarajevo today, stating that he looks forward to leading his government's activities here in achieving a greater degree of prosperity, security, and respect for the rule of law for the benefit of all citizens of BiH. 

"The US remains a guarantor of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH. The priority of all priorities will be to help BiH progress towards achieving its stated goals of membership in NATO and the European Union." 

Nelson emphasized that the US strongly supports progress towards integration into Euro-Atlantic institutions, which will ensure stability, security, and prosperity for this country. 

"Adopting reforms is becoming increasingly necessary. Brave, future-oriented leaders are even more needed. Empty promises and mere rhetoric will become even more useless. We are here to help, but the responsibility for progress depends on the actions of BiH leaders and citizens who should demand their accountability."

Nelson stated that endemic corruption cripples productivity, discourages foreign investors, and drives the most talented and ambitious to leave the country. 

The US Ambassador said that the US is a true friend of BiH. He also spoke about BiH's partnership with NATO, emphasizing that adopting the Annual National Program does not mean membership for BiH, but rather another step forward in that partnership. 

"I will work to help more citizens realize that NATO is a platform that provides security and stability for everyone in the country."  

Responding to journalists' questions, Nelson expressed hope for new talks with leaders in BiH and that the partnership will progress. When asked about the situation with Kosovo and Serbia, and whether it could be reflected in BiH, Nelson stated that "the US position is clear - there is no parallel between the negotiations between Serbia and Kosovo and BiH".

"Some similarities exist, and that is what is needed throughout the region, which is political courage and vision to make important compromises to improve the security of the entire region, and that is what we are seeking here within BiH, but it must respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of this country."

Nelson also commented on Russia's negative influence in the region in attempts to destabilize Montenegro, stating that they consider it very serious. 

The US Ambassador said that he knows that talks are underway regarding the formation of government and that many important issues are open. 

"I think there is room for agreement. It is very clear that the interest of the US and NATO is to protect peace in BiH, and that is something that President Dodik told me when he accepted my credentials, thanking me for the help in ending the war and establishing peace. That is an important achievement and something that we should maintain and improve together."

He pointed out that Bosnia and Herzegovina launched defense reform in 2006, ten years after the war, and formed the Armed Forces by uniting opposing armies.

"Today, the Armed Forces of BiH are a valued partner on the international stage, contributing to global peacekeeping and counter-terrorism missions. Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks serve in the Armed Forces together, demonstrating professionalism and excellence under one flag. They represent a successful integrated model for what BiH institutions can and should be. They are an institution that serves all citizens of BiH and provides them with protection regardless of their origin, as was the case with the terrible floods in 2014. Their success should be a source of pride for all citizens of BiH.