Biden Congratulates on Statehood Day, Recalls Resilience and Determination of Citizens

(Patria) - Ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Statehood Day on November 25, U.S. President Joseph R. Biden sent congratulations to the members of the Presidency of BiH, as well as to all citizens.

"On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend our best wishes to you and the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina as you celebrate the anniversary of your statehood.

My first trip to your beautiful country was as a senator in 1993.

I came then with a clear perspective that the United States must work with those who want to protect and build a future for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

I witnessed firsthand the resilience, resourcefulness, and desire for freedom that characterize your citizens.

I advocated for the United States to play a much more active role in ending the conflict. Today, the United States is proud to be a firm and dedicated partner of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and we remain committed to protecting the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multi-ethnic character of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The statehood of Bosnia and Herzegovina was hard-won. It required partnership and pragmatism, compromise guided by fundamental values, and a shared vision.

The same principles are necessary today. As I said during my visit in 2009, the door is open for those countries that want to be part of the transatlantic community, and the United States will help you pass through that door.

Progress in the reforms necessary for Euro-Atlantic integration represents an important step towards that future. May this Statehood Day inspire continued progress in improving the lives of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina and serve as a lasting tribute to their resilience and determination," Biden stated in his congratulatory message.