Konaković in Vienna: The Republic of Austria is a strong partner and advocate for the European future of Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, is in Vienna with the aim of intensifying political dialogue with Austria, one of the greatest advocates of European future of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans. The visit is focused on the European integrations, current political and security challenges and further strengthening of relations between the two countries.

At the House of the European Union, minister Konaković participated in the discussion "Bosnia and Herzegovina on the path to the European Union: Achievements and Challenges", organized by the European Movement Austria (EBÖ) and the European Commission Representation in Austria. He spoke about the results achieved so far, the upcoming reforms and the political setting that defines the dynamics of the integration process.

Minister Konaković stated that the membership in the European Union stays a strategic goal of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but that the enlargement today exceeds the technical criteria of accession. The changed geopolitical and security circumstances gave new weight to the integration of the Western Balkans, which is why the completion of the process has become a question of strategic importance for the European Union as well. He assessed that it is no longer a question whether the region belongs to the European family, but the real question is whether there is a political determination to complete its integration.

He underlined that the credibility of the process requires the responsibility of both sides. Bosnia and Herzegovina must implement reforms and strengthen institutions, but the achieved results must lead to the concrete steps towards the membership. Such approach is a key for preservation of political momentum and trust of citizens in the European perspective of the country.

During his stay in Vienna, minister Konaković met with the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Beate Meinl-Reisinger. The bilateral relations and political and security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region were discussed, as well as the continuation of the European integrations.

Opinions on the political challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina were exchanged, especially pressure on state institutions and reform processes. Minister Konaković stated that their essence is not in relations between people, but in a wider geopolitical context in which the internal divisions are instrumentalized for achieving foreign interests. Within that framework, he pointed out the long-standing secessionist policy of Milorad Dodik and his political relying on Moscow. He emphasized that response to such policy must be strengthening institutions, continuation of reforms and strong European path of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Minister Konaković thanked Austria for its consistent support for Bosnia and Herzegovina and its active engagement within the initiative the Friends of the Western Balkans. He emphasized that, because of its long-standing knowledge of region, the Republic of Austria understands well that the enlargement is not only a promise to the candidate countries, but also a question of credibility of the European Union and its ability to create its own geopolitical surrounding.

The ministers agreed that relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Austria exceed the political dialogue. The long-standing presence of Austrian companies, well-developed business relations and strong economic cooperation make the Republic of Austria one of the most important partners of Bosnia and Herzegovina and create space for new investments and stronger connection between the business communities.

An important link between the two countries is also a large Bosnia and Herzegovina community in the Republic of Austria, that contributes to the Austrian society with its work, while at the same time maintain relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ministers underlined its importance as an important human and social bridge between the two countries.

Minister Meinl-Reisinger confirmed the strong support of the Republic of Austria to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, its institutions and progress towards the full membership in the European Union. The readiness for the continuation of the close cooperation based on the long-standing friendship, mutual trust and clear interest for safe, functional and European Bosnia and Herzegovina was confirmed.

The depth of the partnership is also confirmed by the relation of the Republic of Austria towards the culture of memory. Minister Konaković expressed his appreciation for Austria's commitment to preserving memory of the Srebrenica genocide, reflected in the Srebrenica Flower memorial in front of Vienna's UN building, unveiled in October 2025. He emphasized that such relation has a particular weight in the times of attempts to deny established facts and glorify legally convicted war criminals.

Respecting the truth and dignity of victims, protection of institution and belonging to European values are not separate questions, but the foundation of the future Bosnia and Herzegovina wants to build. The Republic of Austria is a partner that understands that responsibility and supports it consistently.