Power and Schmidt: Full US support for the High Representative

(Patria) - Ahead of her visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Samantha Power spoke with High Representative Christian Schmidt on January 14, 2022. They discussed the current political crisis in the country, the importance of making efforts towards de-escalation and reconciliation, as well as the need to empower those fighting corruption and working to create economic opportunities for young people.

The Administrator confirmed the United States' support for the High Representative and his authority to use all necessary powers, including the Bonn Powers, until the full implementation of the 5+2 Agenda and until BiH meets the criteria for functioning without international supervision. They agreed that the prosperous future of BiH depends on political leaders and citizens who need to make joint efforts to implement the reforms necessary to achieve the democratic and economic aspirations of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Administrator and the High Representative agreed to continue intensive communication regarding the current political situation and to ensure the full implementation of the 5+2 Agenda.