Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade and Chairperson of the OSCE Ian Borg visited the Bosnia and Herzegovina municipality of Konjic, one of the areas most impacted by last month’s devastating floods.
On Sunday afternoon, the 2024 Maltese Chairpersonship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) started a four-day visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Albania, four of the organisation’s 57 participating states.
In Konjic, the OSCE Chairperson visited some of the areas hit by the October flash floods and landslides, and met with local community representatives, including mayors, civil protection officers, as well as civil society and youth organisations.
Minister Borg expressed his condolences to the families of more than 30 persons who lost their lives in these floods, as he commended the country for uniting to support communities in need. “Many people lost their homes, their sources of income and everything they built through their entire life. I am deeply moved by the courage and strength shown by those affected, and by the outpouring of solidarity from across the country and beyond,” he said.
“The motto of Malta’s 2024 OSCE Chairpersonship is, ‘Strengthening Resilience, Enhancing Security’. As Bosnia and Herzegovina rebuilds, it is essential to not only repair the damage but to build back stronger and lay a foundation that can prevent future natural hazards from becoming disasters. The OSCE Mission in this country stands ready to support authorities at all levels of government in achieving this,” the Chairperson added.
In the capital Sarajevo, the Maltese Chairpersonship’s delegation held talks with Members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković, and the Collegium of the two Parliamentary Assembly Houses.
In a statement to the media, Deputy Prime Minister Borg highlighted the importance of the long-standing partnership between the OSCE and Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The OSCE remains committed to supporting the country’s reform priorities, from strengthening the rule of law and combating corruption to advancing media freedom and addressing gender-based violence.”
“I encourage all political leaders to shift their focus away from divisive narratives and engage in genuinely constructive dialogue to generate tangible progress for all citizens of the country. As we approach the 30th anniversary of a peaceful Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is essential to continue advancing sustainable stability and prosperity,” the Deputy Prime Minister concluded.
Photos: ODPM-MFET
