Komšić in Toronto: Improving BiH and Canada Relations

(Patria) - Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željko Komšić met with representatives of Bosnian organizations in Toronto (Canada). The hosts emphasized that this meeting is of historical significance, given that this is the first time a member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina has visited the BiH diaspora in Canada. Discussions were held on the relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada, as well as the activities of our people in this country to improve these relations.

The importance of reopening the Canadian Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the honorary consulate in Toronto, was highlighted, which would further facilitate the connection between the two countries.
It was concluded that there is room for improvement in bilateral and economic relations, and that it is of great importance to solve the voting problem faced by the BiH diaspora in Canada during elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They emphasized the significance of raising bilateral agreements to a higher level, especially regarding the agreement that defines pension and social insurance for BiH citizens, and updating the exchange of students and academic staff.

Chairman of the Presidency of BiH Željko Komšić thanked the representatives of BiH organizations for their continuous commitment to preserving ties with their homeland, as well as its traditions and culture. He stated that there is room for improvement in economic relations, and that it is of great importance to realize planned projects in which BiH businessmen from Canada, as well as the Government of Canada, are interested, especially in the energy sector.

Chairman Komšić emphasized that the BiH diaspora living in Canada and their activities are of great importance to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that the potentials of the existing cooperation should be utilized to improve friendly relations and cooperation in the fields of economy, education, and culture.

Chairman Komšić, at the invitation of Bosnian organizations from Canada, also attended a ceremonial academy in Toronto on the occasion of the celebration of March 1st, Independence Day of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In a fitting speech, he thanked the BiH diaspora for everything they do for their homeland.