Inzko with Czech diplomat: BiH referendum leads backwards, future lies only in reforms

High Representative Valentin Inzko and First Deputy High Representative Bruce Berton met today in Sarajevo with a delegation of the Czech Republic led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lubomír Zaorálek, reports the Patria news agency.  

During the meeting, the latest political developments in BiH were discussed, with particular emphasis on the obligation of the authorities to fully respect the Peace Agreement, as well as on the new phase of efforts BiH is undertaking, through the recently signed reform program, to join the European Union.

The High Representative provided the Czech delegation with a detailed briefing on recent activities of the Republika Srpska authorities regarding the organization of a referendum on the state judiciary, which constitutes a direct violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. The High Representative emphasized that this initiative could take the country backwards and must be set aside so that Bosnian leaders can focus on genuine reforms and the real needs of citizens.

High Representative Inzko expressed hope that the reform program, which he unreservedly supports, will serve as a much-needed impetus for the implementation of long-awaited reforms.

-Elected leaders have a unique opportunity to choose the future by making the most of the European Union initiative and implementing the reform program, said the High Representative.

He thanked for the continued support that the Czech Republic provides to BiH on its Euro-Atlantic path and for its support to the efforts of the international community aimed at ensuring the full implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. At the meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs Zaorálek expressed support for the activities carried out by the OHR, the OHR announced.