Sweden to invest 16 million euros in development projects in BiH this year

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Sweden will invest 16 million euros in development projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina this year, with a focus on projects in the fields of agriculture and economy, development of small and medium-sized enterprises, and environmental protection, it was highlighted at today's meeting between the Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations Mirko Šarović and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to BiH Anders Hagelberg.

Air pollution is one of the biggest problems that will receive the most attention in the coming period because, as emphasized, Bosnia and Herzegovina is the third country in Europe in terms of air pollution.

- In Bosnia and Herzegovina, about 9,000 people die annually from the consequences of air pollution, while in Sweden, 40 people die, which speaks volumes about the seriousness of the situation and the need for urgent action through already initiated projects - emphasized the Swedish Ambassador.

Mutual readiness was expressed to continue cooperation on a long-term project of the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, which will strengthen capacities for improving air quality assessment, its monitoring and management, in cooperation with relevant ministries and institutions.

The Swedish Ambassador announced investments and engagement in other significant projects, especially in the field of agriculture and economy, with the aim of comprehensive support for the European Union integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina.