Komšić reiterates with Spanish State Secretary that human rights in BiH must be respected

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željko Komšić received in visit the State Secretary of the Kingdom of Spain for the European Union, Juan Gonzalez-Barba Pera, and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to BiH, María Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat.

They discussed the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Komšić expressed concern over destabilising activities from the entity of Republika Srpska, and emphasised that the work of state institutions must be enabled, which will lead us back to fulfilling the 14 key priorities from the European Commission's Opinion.

Komšić stressed that the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg must be implemented with the aim of eliminating discrimination and ensuring respect for human rights and minority rights throughout the entire territory of BiH.

He pointed out that the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina must resist any attempt to undermine the constitutional order, violate the law, and dismantle the state.

Komšić expressed hope that an escalation of political conflicts will not occur, as it could very quickly reflect on the entire region and Europe.

He emphasised that the support of the Kingdom of Spain, as well as other EU countries, for the reform and integration processes in our country, concerning the attainment of candidate status in the European Union and membership in the North Atlantic Alliance – NATO, is equally important. He expressed satisfaction with the increased interest of the Kingdom of Spain in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.

The State Secretary of the Kingdom of Spain, Juan Gonzalez-Barba Pera, expressed satisfaction with the good and continuous relations between the two countries. He stated that he is aware of the seriousness of the situation, but is confident that BiH, as a unified country, will one day become a member of the EU and NATO. He noted that he considers the EU enlargement to the Western Balkans a natural course of events.

The interlocutors agreed that the value system of a democratic society and respect for human rights are the foundation for any further progress, and that this must be insisted upon.

Komšić thanked the State Secretary of the Kingdom of Spain for the EU and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to BiH, María Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat, for their understanding and support, which they selflessly provide in the reform processes of our country on the path to EU membership.