Incko: State budget is a priority for stopping coronavirus

(Patria) - High Representative Valentin Inzko fully supports the coordinated measures taken by authorities at various levels in BiH to counter the coronavirus pandemic. These difficult days have shown that political and institutional leaders can work effectively together for the same goal.

"Continued close cooperation and coordination, and an urgent focus on targeted measures can empower Bosnian-Herzegovinian authorities at all levels to adequately respond to the crisis and protect the health of the population. These measures primarily include ensuring unimpeded and adequate financing and the continuous functioning of BiH institutions. In this regard, it is the responsibility of the Council of Ministers of BiH, the Presidency of BiH, and the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH to urgently adopt the regular state-level budget for 2020.

This would remove the limitations inherent in temporary financing, which can seriously affect BiH's ability to adequately respond to the coronavirus crisis or any other emergency situation that BiH may face. The absence of a budget would also affect the ability of BiH institutions to fulfill their constitutional and legal obligations, including the organization of the municipal elections in October 2020, as well as many other significant issues.

Politicians should not use this crisis to promote other agendas under any circumstances. Furthermore, unilateral and uncoordinated activities do not significantly contribute to the fight against coronavirus. Moreover, they divert attention and resources from other areas where their presence and assistance would be of real benefit to citizens. Instead, leaders should ensure that all activities are carried out quickly, but also transparently, coordinated, and focused on helping the citizens of this country," it is stated.

The High Representative also calls on citizens to fully comply with the instructions received from the competent authorities. Without the comprehensive cooperation of every individual, this virus cannot be brought under control and will cause further incalculable damage. Instead, citizens should show that they are at their best when faced with the greatest challenges.