Minister Konaković met with the US Special Envoy for monitoring and combating anti-Semitism, Yehuda Kaploun, and Congressman William Keating in Washington

On March 25, 2026, Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, met with Yehuda Kaploun, the U.S. Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Anti-Semitism, and Congressman William Keating, a prominent member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Subcommittee on Europe in Washington, D.C.

During the meeting with Ambassador Kaploun, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, they engaged in a constructive dialogue about their shared commitment to combating anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of intolerance. They emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing contemporary extremist tendencies.

Minister Konaković briefed Ambassador Kaploun about the coordinated campaign by certain political actors and lobbyists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which aims to spread misinformation, create distorted narratives, and make false accusations of anti-Semitism. He stressed that Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its deep-rooted multi-ethnicity and inter-religious solidarity, has a moral responsibility to contribute to global efforts against discrimination. He particularly highlighted the significance of the Sarajevo Haggadah, noting its historical, cultural, and symbolic importance. He argued that promoting it within the U.S. Congress significantly strengthens international understanding, affirms universal values, and honours traditions of courage and solidarity.

Ambassador Kaploun reaffirmed the United States' ongoing commitment to the stability and progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina, recalling Elie Wiesel's moral message about the responsibility for the suffering of others. They agreed that peace is non-negotiable and that dialogue and mutual respect are essential for a secure future.

In a separate meeting with Congressman William Keating, they discussed the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the broader Western Balkans region, focusing on security challenges, destabilizing external influences, and internal blockages that hinder reform processes.

Minister Konaković underlined the importance of maintaining continuous cooperation with the United States and international partners, noting the irreplaceable role of the Office of the High Representative (OHR) in preserving functional institutions, implementing the Dayton Peace Agreement, and ensuring stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He pointed out the campaign by secessionist actors and lobbyists who attempt to spread manipulative narratives, including false claims about alleged Muslim attacks on Christians and threats to their rights in the country. He explained the lobbying mechanisms that seek to undermine the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, stressing that this represents an organized political effort aimed at destabilizing the region and obstructing Bosnia and Herzegovina's path toward European integration.

The Minister emphasized the necessity of public and political dialogue to be grounded in facts and verified information, coupled with clear and decisive institutional actions to counter misinformation and harmful interpretations that could destabilize political processes and threaten the country's overall stability.

Congressman Keating reiterated his steadfast support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting the strategic importance of stability in the Western Balkans for the transatlantic security framework and the obligation to confront destabilizing narratives.