Konaković with Danish Minister Bjerre: EU is an opportunity, Dodik is a threat to the region's security

(Patria) - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina Elmedin Konaković met today in Sarajevo with the Minister for European Affairs of the Kingdom of Denmark Marie Bjerre, who is on a working visit to BiH ahead of Denmark's upcoming presidency of the European Union.

Konaković emphasized that Denmark and BiH have long-standing friendly relations, further strengthened by the presence of over 20,000 citizens of BiH origin in that Nordic country.

– Denmark provides us with great support on our European path. They have reopened their embassy in Sarajevo, which is a strong political message. Today we have two options – the European Union with all its advantages and stability, and on the other hand – threats we have not seen since Dayton, which are coming through Russian malign influence – Konaković said.

He particularly highlighted the destructive role of the BiH Presidency member Milorad Dodik, whom he identified as a "Russian player" in BiH.

– Dodik is leading an attack on state institutions, endangering economic development, as well as the security of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region. At the call of the Russian red telephone, the politician they own is blocking processes in our country – Konaković stated, adding that he hopes international partners will understand the depth and seriousness of the situation.

Minister Bjerre expressed concern about the political developments in BiH, especially in Republika Srpska, assessing the current activities as unconstitutional and destabilizing.

– We have a deeper understanding of the situation in your country. EU enlargement is a priority for us, and it will be the focus of our presidency. However, negotiations with BiH can only open when the conditions are met – Bjerre said, emphasizing that the responsibility lies with domestic actors.

Denmark, as she pointed out, remains a strong advocate for EU enlargement, but also for the respect of fundamental democratic and legal principles.