Sarajevo, (Fena) – The OSCE Chairperson, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, concluded her visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she participated in discussions with senior officials on strengthening personal and general security and stability, both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and throughout the region.
– The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina was established in 1995 to help maintain lasting peace in the country. The current concerning political situation could have far-reaching consequences for peace and cooperation in the region. The international community is ready to provide support to Bosnia and Herzegovina, but solutions must stem from a genuine commitment to democracy, dialogue, and constitutional integrity – Chairperson Valtonen stated.
During her visit, Valtonen met with Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković, members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željka Cvijanović, Denis Bećirović, and Željko Komšić, as well as representatives of the international community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, according to the OSCE.
She also visited the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she met with the Head of Mission, Ambassador Brian Aggeler, as well as with Mission staff, whom she commended for the seriousness and professionalism they demonstrate in their fieldwork.
– The OSCE is doing important work in this region, such as strengthening democracy and protecting good governance and human rights, and supporting the development of a multinational, multiethnic society – Valtonen stated, acknowledging the efforts made to strengthen stability in the region.
Valtonen also met with representatives of civil society organizations and concluded her visit by going to Camp Butmir, where she met with the commander of the EUFOR Althea operation, Major General Florin Marian Barbu, and the commander of the NATO headquarters, Brigadier General Matthew A. Valas. (19.03.)