Konaković with Escobar: Extraordinary circumstances require stronger US engagement

(Patria) - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina Elmedin Konaković met today with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the USA and Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar on the sidelines of the two-day International Conference Dubrovnik Forum 2023.

The current political situation in BiH, our country's path to the EU, and regional cooperation were discussed.

Konaković emphasized the importance of increased focus and interest from the US administration towards the Western Balkan countries.

He expressed gratitude to the USA for its continuous support to BiH institutions in implementing reforms on the path to Euro-Atlantic integration, especially regarding the fight against corruption and the rule of law.

He added that BiH expects the continuation of the proactive role of the USA in these processes, which are key to the functionality and stability of BiH.

Escobar emphasized the strong support of the US administration for the continuation of the accession process of Western Balkan countries to the EU.

He reiterated that the United States of America is committed to preserving the stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and pointed out that extraordinary circumstances in BiH, the region, and Europe require and justify stronger US engagement in overcoming current obstacles and accelerating the necessary reforms in the process of Euro-Atlantic integration.