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I would like to warmly welcome High Representative Valentin Inzko back to the Council, and thank him for the report and his briefing. Lithuanian associates itself with the statement to be made by the European Union.            This year marks 20 years since the end of a three and a half years long devastating war and an immense human tragedy. The Srebrenica anniversary later this summer will mark what was described as “truly scenes from hell, written on the darkest pages of human”.  Against that background, the progress achieved since has been remarkable.

These last two decades have been a proof of the commitment of the international community to building a safer and more stable region. Sustained EU engagement provided an essential  framework and incentive for change. There are challenges ahead, but a great deal of progress has been achieved in the region and Bosnia and Herzegovina is no exception.

Significant steps have been taken in realising the vision of a prosperous, united, multi-ethnic Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our commitment to the integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign and united country remains strong.

The latest developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina are a clear demonstration of the European choice of its people and the firm determination of the country to move forward on the path of EU integration.

The renewed EU approach has generated a momentum. With the written commitment to undertake further reforms signed by the leaders of the political parties and endorsed by the Parliamentary Assembly, the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina took a remarkable decision. It was a defining moment for the relations between the EU and Bosnia and Herzegovina and a solid step towards realising its European perspective. It has enabled the entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement as of next month.

Further steps need to be taken to carry on the reform agenda supporting necessary economic and social reforms, including measures provided by the Compact for Growth initiative, as well as closer dialogue between the EU and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While we note the resilience the economy displayed in the context of the floods that affected Bosnia and Herzegovina and other countries of the region last spring, as noted in the report of the High Representative, tackling social and economic issues requires urgent attention. A high unemployment rate, especially among the young, is a matter of concern. Continuous reforms should translate into real opportunities for the benefit of all citizens, including the youth and the unemployed.

We are encouraged by the intentions of the newly elected leaders to focus on the reform efforts. We call on the authorities to capitalize on the opportunities that the renewed EU approach presents. Their full realisation requires determination and unity among the political elites. The divisive and separatist rhetoric is counterproductive and should be left behind.

Further reconciliation, strengthening of the rule of law, administrative capacities at all levels would require overcoming the political differences and uniting for the common goal. 

Good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation are essential for ensuring security and prosperity in the Western Balkans. Joint efforts on connectivity and other areas are an important unifying factor. We encourage the newly elected authorities to further promote regional cooperation and strengthen ties with the neighbouring countries. 

Regional cooperation initiatives also contribute to addressing security threats. While overall security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains stable, the recent incident in the city of Zvornik where a police station was attacked and a policeman was killed underlines the need to scale up efforts by the authorities aimed at ensuring public order, safety and security. 

The EU will continue to provide through EUFOR support to Bosnia and Herzegovina's efforts to maintain a safe and secure environment under the UN mandate.

To conclude, we encourage Bosnia and Herzegovina’s leadership to demonstrate clear, strategic political will and determination and use the momentum for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina to benefit from the real progress in economic and social reforms. This is essential in realising the vision of a united and prosperous country that is strong in its diversity.