United Kingdom at UNSC supported OHR and Bonn powers, criticized Dodik for attacks on BiH Constitution and institutions

(Patria) - The representative of the United Kingdom (UK) in her address at today's session of the UN Security Council in New York welcomed the renewal of the mandate of the EUFOR Althea mission, which "continues to play a key role in ensuring peace and security in BiH".

She also thanked the High Representative Christian Schmidt for his semi-annual report on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

- The constitutional order and the rule of law in BiH must be preserved. Last year was marked by a significant political crisis, the most significant in the last 30 years, caused by attacks on the Constitution and institutions of BiH by the former president of RS, Milorad Dodik.

We respect the decisions of the courts of Bosnia and Herzegovina and call on all actors to support the rule of law and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH - she said.

As she stated, the political crisis further emphasizes the key role of the High Representative and the importance of his Bonn powers. Both were approved by the Security Council within its resolutions.

- He was chosen by the Council for the Implementation of Peace, not by our Council. The High Representative is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Dayton Agreement. We fully support the High Representative and the use of his executive powers when necessary.

The UK supports the Dayton Agreement, which formed one state, two entities, and three constituent peoples. At the same time, we support BiH's aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration, which reflects the will of the majority of its citizens - she stated.

She also welcomed the recent adoption of the Reform Agenda, which she assessed as the most effective way for long-term benefits for all citizens of BiH.

- We continue to support the accountability of domestic authorities. The UK calls on all political leaders in BiH to put aside their differences and show political courage by working together for a more stable and prosperous future for all citizens - she concluded in her address.