Karen Pierce visited Banja Luka: Met with Prime Minister Minić, Stanivuković, Blanuša...

(Patria) - United Kingdom Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce, visited Bosnia and Herzegovina from February 2 to 4, 2026. During the visit, she met with domestic and international officials, reiterating the United Kingdom's unwavering support for the stability and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

She began her visit in Sarajevo, where she held meetings with the Chairman and members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as with the Chairperson of the Council of Ministers. Discussions focused on political and economic reforms, the security situation, and the country's progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration.

The Special Envoy also met with High Representative Christian Schmidt.

She then traveled to Banja Luka, where she met with the Prime Minister of Republika Srpska, the President of the Serb Democratic Party (SDS), and the leaders of the Safe Srpska Movement. Discussions focused on cooperation to support stability and prosperity for people throughout Republika Srpska and all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. She particularly emphasized the importance of the rule of law as a means to drive economic development.

"Following previous visits to Sarajevo and Mostar, I am pleased to visit Banja Luka and discuss with key political leaders. The United Kingdom wants to see both entities in Bosnia and Herzegovina progress, and this is best achieved through a commitment to stability and the rule of law, as well as by seizing the opportunities offered by Euro-Atlantic integration. Accession to the European Union represents a significant opportunity to implement key reforms within a structured process that can unlock the full potential of this country. I firmly believe that a more resilient and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the interest of all its citizens and will bring significant benefits to both Republika Srpska and the Federation of BiH," stated Dame Karen Pierce.

She will share her observations from the visit with the United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary, with the aim of further strengthening cooperation focused on supporting institutions, advancing democracy, and ensuring long-term stability throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.