Minister Konaković received Bulgarian Ambassador Valeriy Ivanov Jotov on a farewell visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, hosted a farewell visit from Valeriy Ivanov Jotov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Bosnia and Herzegovina, on July 13, 2026.

Both sides recognized that the relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bulgaria are amicable and free of unresolved issues. They expressed a mutual willingness to strengthen these ties further through political dialogue, bilateral consultations, exchanges of visits, and ongoing close cooperation in areas of shared interest.

Minister Konaković thanked Ambassador Jotov for his professional commitment and substantial contributions to enhancing friendly relations and cooperation between the two nations, particularly in supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina's European integration process.

They discussed the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the country's European aspirations, and the geopolitical challenges it faces, including the rising malign influence from external sources that adversely affects regional stability. Minister Konaković emphasized that pursuing European integration remains Bosnia and Herzegovina's primary foreign policy objective. However, this endeavour continues to face obstacles due to persistent blockades and secessionist policies that hinder reform and weaken the functioning of state institutions. He noted, however, the encouraging trend of increased pro-European commitment among opposition political actors in the Republika Srpska, highlighting it as an important incentive for ongoing reforms and European integration.

Ambassador Jotov expressed his gratitude for the collaboration during his tenure, reaffirming Bulgaria's commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina's European path, along with its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order. He underscored that the European perspective for the Western Balkans is crucial for ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the entire region.