Schmidt sums up impressions from Antalya: BiH needs decisions in favor of European integration and investments, not political games

(Patria) - The High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Christian Schmidt, commented on his participation in the three-day Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), summarizing his talks with officials. He emphasized the international community's commitment to the stability of the Western Balkans and the European path of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Schmidt particularly highlighted the importance of adopting key laws for European integration, as well as the issue of energy stability, but stated that politicians must do this.

"We saw the decision on the Southern Interconnection, where we now need to see how it can actually be implemented, so that gas at reasonable prices flows to all those who want to use it in BiH," Schmidt said.

Schmidt said that the good news is that there is a focus on avoiding the incitement of Islamophobic and other statements that cause division and offend the integrity of parts of society in BiH.

"Whether at the level of the OSCE, the EU, or the neighborhood in the Western Balkans, we all agreed that this must be approached very carefully. Do not continue with hate speech, and if it occurs, especially in this election year, we will have to give a clear and sharp response," warned the High Representative, adding that every citizen has the right to stability, peace, and a European future.

Schmidt congratulated the Turkish government and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on launching the Western Balkans Peace Forum, emphasizing that the region suffers from poor infrastructural and political connectivity.

"This is because we need to invest and take on joint responsibilities, but also make joint decisions. This country needs decisions in favor of European integration and investments, not political games. The message amidst the discussions was clear: make decisions that are important for the people, not for politicians," Schmidt conveyed.

Finally, he thanked the Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan for the invitation, emphasizing the importance of political cooperation between Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina in building a common peaceful future.

Message of the High Representative, Christian Schmidt, from the Antalya Diplomacy Forum
...........
Poruka visokog predstavnika Christiana Schmidta sa Antalya diplomatskog foruma pic.twitter.com/LHyWPO0jTI

— OHR BiH (@OHR_BiH) April 19, 2026