Hungary Vows Support for Bosnia-Herzegovina’s EU Accession Amid Regional Stability Concerns

Budapest: Hungary has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bosnia-Herzegovina’s bid to join the European Union, highlighting the move as pivotal for the peace and prosperity of the Western Balkans. Péter Szijjártó, Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, emphasized the significance of this support during discussions with Nermin Niksic, the Prime Minister of Bosnia-Herzegovina.

According to About Hungary, Minister Szijjártó underscored the importance of stability in the Western Balkans, particularly during challenging times. He noted that Hungary’s approach to neighboring states is founded on a policy of constant dialogue and mutual respect. “We are doubtlessly among the few who can maintain dialogue with all players of domestic politics in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” Szijjártó said during a joint press conference.

Hungary’s strategy involves direct communication with Western Balkans states, contrasting with the more common EU practice of discussing these nations without their involvement. Szijjártó
highlighted the necessity of respect for these countries’ sovereignty and will, describing it as crucial for their relations.

Minister Szijjártó acknowledged the slow pace of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s EU accession process, noting that although the country applied for membership in 2016, negotiations only commenced last March. The Hungarian presidency of the European Council aims to expedite the adoption of the negotiating framework, which requires legislative measures in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “As soon as that happens, Hungary will urge the European Commission to hold an intergovernmental conference establishing the negotiating framework as soon as possible,” he said.

Szijjártó also expressed optimism that the process could advance significantly this year during Hungary’s EU presidency. However, he cautioned that unanimous support from all member states is necessary, pointing out discrepancies between public statements and private positions among some member states regarding EU enlargement.

In addition to its
political support, Hungary is prepared to assist Bosnia-Herzegovina with practical measures, such as training 50 public administration officials to aid in the EU integration process. Szijjártó also conveyed Hungary’s sympathies for the victims of recent floods in Bosnia-Herzegovina, noting the dispatch of emergency aid worth 25 million forints, including water pumps and tents. He assured Prime Minister Niksic of Hungary’s readiness to assist with infrastructure reconstruction once plans are in place.