Izetbegović calls for BiH to gain candidate status, promises to fulfill obligations

A donor conference for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, countries affected by catastrophic floods and landslides in May this year, has begun in Brussels, organized by the European Commission in co-organization with France and Slovenia, reports the Patria News Agency.

Bakir Izetbegović, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, addressed the attendees in the introductory part, expressing great gratitude to Slovenia, France, and the entire European Union. Izetbegović referred to the damage left behind by the catastrophic floods that hit BiH, and did not miss the opportunity to mention the solidarity shown by citizens during the floods.

- The situation in the affected areas is difficult. We need to rebuild houses, schools, and hospitals. Our government and all levels have responded to certain requests. However, this is the biggest catastrophe in the last 120 years, and the reconstruction of houses must begin as soon as possible. We cannot wait for winter to arrive with people still without roofs over their heads. Many of those affected were already living on the brink of poverty, and others who had to flee their homes had already done so once before – said Izetbegović, adding that BiH has faced more disasters throughout history, but has always overcome them.

He further added that he hopes BiH will soon gain candidate status for EU membership.

- I know that we must fulfill all obligations, such as the "Sejdić-Finci" ruling, and I assure you that we will. BiH deserves a chance. The situation in the affected areas is difficult. State institutions will have to do a lot; we have already responded to numerous requests and challenges. But that will not be enough. Therefore, we ask for your help and cooperation. We guarantee that the use of funds will be efficient and transparent – said Izetbegović.