German Minister Roth ahead of arrival in BiH: Withdrawal from state institutions is unacceptable

(Patria) - The current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is frustrating and poses a threat to peace and stability in the whole of Europe, said German Minister for Europe Michael Roth ahead of his two-day visit to BiH.

"Calls for secession from the state and moves towards its weakening by withdrawing from national institutions are irresponsible and unacceptable. They distract from the real tasks that political leaders should be dealing with, namely the implementation of overdue reforms that are necessary for greater convergence with the EU," the statement reads.

Roth emphasized that urgent progress in this area is necessary, which is in the interest of the country's citizens and its economic progress.

"Germany firmly stands by all those in Bosnia and Herzegovina who work for a democratic, European future of their country as a state that embraces the rule of law. I would like to encourage and urge all such individuals to persevere in their efforts," he added.

According to the official statement from the German Ministry, Roth will be in Sarajevo from November 30 to December 2, and meetings are planned with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Bisera Turković, representatives of the Presidency of BiH, High Representative Christian Schmidt, and representatives of civil society.

The current political situation and the country's prospects for joining the EU will be discussed.

State Minister Roth will also meet with members of the Parliament of Bosnia and Herzegovina to discuss topics such as reforms needed for greater convergence with the EU and the consequences of the current political stalemate.