Holtzapple with political leaders in Mostar on reforms, rule of law and functioning of institutions

(Patria) - Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, Ambassador Rick Holtzapple visited Mostar today where he held a series of high-level meetings with political leaders in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (HNC).

On this occasion, Ambassador Holtzapple confirmed the Mission's commitment to providing support for reforms that strengthen democratic governance, the rule of law, human rights, and inclusive and quality education.

Holtzapple, among others, met with the Prime Minister of HNC Marija Buhač, expressing gratitude for the long-standing and successful cooperation between HNC and the Mission.

The interlocutors emphasized the need for strong leadership and coordinated action to maintain progress on key issues such as curricular reform, police modernization, and improvement of the draft Law on Peaceful Assembly in line with international standards.

- Partnership at all levels of government is key to reforms that benefit all citizens. We are encouraged by HNC's continued commitment to achieving these priorities - said Holtzapple.

During the visit to Mostar, the Ambassador also met with the cantonal Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Adnan Velagić, with whom he discussed the importance of inclusive and quality education as the foundation of long-term social and economic progress.

On this occasion, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Mission and the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of HNC, formalizing the joint commitment to comprehensive education reform.

- Quality education is key to building stronger communities and achieving genuine, long-term progress. Strong political will and leadership are essential for the success of curricular reform - said Ambassador Holtzapple.

In a conversation with the Speaker of the HNC Assembly Džafer Alić, Holtzapple welcomed steps towards greater institutional transparency and called for the timely adoption of the draft Code of Ethics for elected officials, with the aim of strengthening public trust and accountability.

The Head of Mission also met with the Mayor of Mostar Mario Kordić to express satisfaction with the City's cooperation with the Mission and discuss opportunities for strengthening connectivity and unity within the local community.

Continuing a series of regular talks with political parties in BiH, Holtzapple met in Mostar with the leader of the List for Justice and Order Nebojša Vukanović, with whom he exchanged views on the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the RS.

Holtzapple emphasized that the OSCE Mission to BiH remains an impartial and consistent partner, advocating for functional institutions and constructive political dialogue at all levels.

Holtzapple also visited the newsroom of the media outlet Bljesak.info, once again emphasizing the Mission's strong support for the protection of media freedom and professional journalism.

The OSCE Mission to BiH will continue to provide support to institutions at all levels in efforts aimed at building a more transparent and inclusive democratic society, for the benefit of all citizens of BiH.