Juncker: Long live BiH, long live Europe!

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - A joint session of both houses of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina was held in the Grand Hall of the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH, attended by numerous representatives of political life in BiH, the diplomatic corps, and public and social life, in addition to MPs and delegates.

President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker addressed the attendees after receiving the answers to the European Commission's Questionnaire at the Presidency of BiH today.

Juncker greeted the citizens of this beautiful country, and its peoples.

- At a time when your country is entering a new stage on its European path, the EC will now carefully study the answers and begin preparing its opinion regarding your application for membership in order to recommend your candidacy as soon as possible. You are an integral part of Europe, of European culture, and history; together we must improve and consolidate the history and geography of Europe. Your future is in the EU. Every country must do something. This is your choice, just as it was for every country when you submitted your application on February 15. We support your choice, and it is demanding. European integration requires a lot of effort from your citizens, your political leaders, reforms that citizens demand, to bridge divides, to have cohesion, and to speak with one voice.

Juncker said that this process is viewed from a technical perspective, but it is actually a political project, and for that, all political forces must unite, as well as the desire to do everything to become an EU member.

- This choice of yours is a choice for future generations, and that is why I want to address the youth of BiH. We owe it to that youth to engage strongly and implement all reforms. 35 years after the Olympic Games in Sarajevo, 24 years after the end of the war, the European Youth Olympic Festival will be held in Sarajevo in February 2019. That Olympic spirit is similar to the European one. Europe is much more than government institutions. Europe is a project of reconciliation in unity, respecting differences. We learn from each other, we learn to love each other. And Europe teaches us about ourselves too - Juncker said.

He emphasized that reforms are necessary, primarily for the citizens. He highlighted the need to strengthen the rule of law, reduce corruption, and overcome hostilities...

- We need to introduce stability, and we cannot introduce instability into Europe. Territorial disputes need to be resolved.

Juncker said that patriotism has nothing to do with nationalism.

- Nationalism is a poison and contrary to European values. I am outraged when I hear parties delivering xenophobic speeches. I will always fight against such speeches. Peace is much more than the end of hostilities or signing agreements. It is a daily struggle and courage - he stated, adding that Europe is organized on the basis of law, which is superior to weapons.

Juncker concluded his address with the words: Long live BiH, long live Europe!