BiH MFA: Stop and most severely sanction attacks on Bosniaks

(Patria) - Bisera Turković, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, today called on the competent institutions in Montenegro to take urgent measures to stop and most severely sanction attacks on Bosniaks and their property in that country.

Images and information coming from Pljevlja, which include nationalist symbols and messages, destruction of property of the Islamic Community, physical attacks on political opponents, and a message stating that "Pljevlja will be Srebrenica," are instilling fear and insecurity among Bosniaks in that country.

Minister Turković called on Montenegrin competent institutions, all actors on the political scene, prominent public figures, and representatives of religious communities to make maximum efforts to calm tensions, so that the situation in that country does not escalate and lead to problems in the entire region.

"I am following the situation in Montenegro with great concern, especially in Pljevlja, where Bosniaks are exposed to almost daily attacks and provocations. I most severely condemn the messages of hatred and attacks on Bosniaks, their property, and the property of the Islamic Community. I believe these are uncivilized acts that must be stopped and sanctioned. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro have built good relations in recent years and currently have no open issues. The status and position of the Bosniak people in Montenegro, through participation in government and institutions, have significantly improved in recent years.

I believe this is a positive example of relations towards all citizens in the country, and the direction this country should continue to move on its European and NATO path. The latest developments, following the elections, through the treatment of Bosniaks, indicate a deviation from this path. Different political views must never be a reason for expressing intolerance and hatred towards other peoples. I sincerely hope that the citizens of Montenegro, political representatives, and religious officials will clearly distance themselves from those who spread hatred and intolerance, and that this country, in which all citizens will be equal and have the same rights, will continue its path of progress," said Bisera Turković, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina.