The Austrian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alexander Schallenberg, reassured that Austria will continue to support the EU path for countries in the Western Balkans, regardless of the government’s composition after the upcoming elections. He emphasized the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s accession negotiations and the need for continued reforms to benefit its people.
Schallenberg highlighted the Danube Strategy forum as a valuable platform for regional cooperation in technology, transport, and business. He emphasized the significance of the Danube becoming an internal waterway of the EU, bringing member states and candidate countries closer together.
Expressing concern over Bosnia and Herzegovina’s brain drain, Schallenberg emphasized the economic and life prospects that EU integration could offer to young people. He urged for reforms and announced plans for an intergovernmental conference to kickstart accession negotiations this year.
Overall, Schallenberg’s remarks underscored Austria’s commitment to supporting the Western Balkans on their EU path, promoting regional cooperation, and advocating for reforms to strengthen the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.