By Cyber Era NG Special Correspondent

In light of the Council of the European Union’s (EU) statement granting Bosnia and Herzegovina candidacy status, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brian Aggeler, made the following statement: “Granting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s candidate status to the European Union is a very welcome opportunity and an important milestone along the country’s path toward European integration. We congratulate the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina on this achievement.

This status granted by member states of the EU can serve as an important impetus for elected leaders to concretely carry out much needed work on long-delayed and urgent reforms.

These reforms include, but are not limited to, strengthening the rule of law and good governance; protecting fundamental rights; combating corruption and organized crime; and making positive moves to strengthen mutual trust, understanding and respect between communities.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s elected leaders have a critical opportunity to co-operate and create a prosperous, stable and secure country. Working together, elected officials can lead all citizens to a future with better living standards that, in turn, reduces their exodus. Now is the time to deliver on promises of a better future in the interest of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina stands ready to continue its close work with the national authorities to support key reform processes in the country and assist Bosnia and Herzegovina in achieving its strategic goals, in line with OSCE principles and commitments.”