Minister Konaković met with the US congressional delegation in Sarajevo

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, met with Congressman Keith Self, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, and Suhas Subramanyam, a leading member of the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs of the U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee, in Sarajevo on the 24th of May 2026.

Minister Konaković emphasized that the partnership with the United States plays a crucial role in strengthening state institutions, upholding the rule of law, and achieving Bosnia and Herzegovina's strategic goals as it seeks membership in the European Union and NATO. He expressed gratitude for the U.S.'s continuous and strong support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's European aspirations, Euro-Atlantic integration, and for upholding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the principles established by the Dayton Peace Agreement. He underscored that the U.S. remains a key strategic partner for Bosnia and Herzegovina and an important guarantor of regional stability.

They reviewed the State Department's report to Congress regarding U.S. policy towards the Western Balkans. The report highlighted Washington's strategic goal of preserving regional stability, strengthening economic ties, and countering Russian and Chinese influence. A key focus was on supporting the Dayton Peace Agreement, with a clear commitment from the United States to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The report further indicated that the U.S. administration would continue to support political actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina in strengthening responsible political actions to create conditions favourable for economic development and long-term security.

The conversation also included an exchange of views on the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans region. They particularly emphasized security challenges, including external malign influences and hybrid threats. In this context, Minister Konaković highlighted the importance of ongoing cooperation with international partners to enhance resilience and stability, and to maintain the vital role of the Office of the High Representative (OHR) in safeguarding the constitutional order, the Dayton framework, and the institutional stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He stressed that it is essential for the future High Representative to understand the complexities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, recognize the strategic importance of stability in the Western Balkans, and remain fully committed to protecting peace, democratic institutions, and the European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations of the country.

Additionally, they discussed strategic energy projects, particularly the Southern Gas Interconnection and an agreement signed in Dubrovnik. Minister Konaković pointed out that this project transcends infrastructure investment, as it is vital for the energy security, resilience, and independence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and aims to reduce dependence on a single source of gas. Energy diversification is seen as crucial for sovereignty and long-term stability, and the project's realization opens avenues for deeper integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina into European energy markets, with the continued support of the United States.Congressmen Self and Subramanyam reaffirmed the strong support of the United States for maintaining peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans region, emphasizing the importance of continuing the transatlantic partnership and ongoing reform processes.