Faymann supports internal reforms in BiH

Chairman of the Presidency of BiH Bakir Izetbegović and member of the Presidency of BiH Željko Komšić spoke today with the Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Dr. Werner Faymann. On this occasion, they informed him about the situation and consequences caused by the natural disaster, damage assessment, needs and priorities in the recovery and reconstruction process, as well as preparations for the donor conference.

Special gratitude was expressed for the assistance that Austria has provided to BiH so far, particularly for the engagement of members and resources of the Austrian Armed Forces in rescuing the endangered population through EUFOR. They also thanked for the financial assistance of one million euros approved by the Government of Austria on May 22, as well as for Austria's readiness to send special demining teams to clear areas contaminated with mines, and for the continuous collection of humanitarian aid from Austrian citizens, the Presidency of BiH announced, as reported by Patria.

It was assessed that political relations and cooperation are very good in all fields. It was also emphasized that steady progress is being made in the development of economic relations, which is confirmed by the fact that last year there was an increase in the volume of trade, with the volume of exports from BiH to Austria growing more than the volume of imports from Austria to BiH. The volume and significance of Austrian investments for Bosnia and Herzegovina were highlighted, as well as the fact that Austria is one of the largest foreign investors in BiH.

The initiative for negotiations on the Agreement on the Employment of Workers from BiH in Austria was mentioned, and great importance is attached to the conclusion of this agreement, as well as the initiative for an agreement on cultural and scientific cooperation.

The topic of the meeting was also the EU enlargement process to the countries of the Western Balkans, and Chancellor Faymann expressed further support for urgently needed internal reforms in BiH, as well as in other countries of the region.

On behalf of the member of the Presidency of BiH from the Republika Srpska, Nebojša Radmanović, the meeting was attended by foreign policy advisor Neda Lazarević.