EU Delegation Head in BiH Sattler in address to media: EU is incomplete without BiH and the region

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The new Head of the EU Delegation to BiH Johann Sattler addressed the media today for the first time after taking up his post. Sattler presented his credentials yesterday to the Chairman of the BiH Presidency Željko Komšić. He was appointed to a two-year term, arriving in BiH from Tirana where he served as Austrian ambassador. 

"On a personal note, I am glad to be here again. I love your mountains. I am pleased to take up the post today. The EU is the best for BiH. The EU is incomplete without BiH and the region. BiH has shown that even in difficult situations it can handle problems. This is also proof to refute those who deny you. Much needs to be done in BiH: impartial judiciary, protection of rights, economy," Sattler said. 

He recalled that the European Commission Opinion lists five necessary reforms and that he expects the drafting of an Action Plan for the implementation of the reforms from the Opinion. He particularly emphasised that the rule of law and an independent judiciary are key for BiH. 

"Bosnians and Herzegovinians pay a lot into the state coffers and citizens expect to get something in return," he added.

Sattler said it is unacceptable that a government at the state level has not been formed 10 months after the elections.

"I appeal for us to move forward. It is time for everyone to roll up our sleeves and get to work," Sattler said, adding that it depends on BiH when it will join EU membership.

He also added that conditions and prerequisites must be created before talking about the departure of the OHR from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As one of the biggest regional problems, he highlighted connectivity both in the region and in BiH. 

"From Albania I travelled for eight hours, some 300-odd kilometres, that is unacceptable," Sattler said.