Oct 17, 2024 – Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has reaffirmed his country’s support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European Union membership bid during a visit to Sarajevo. The two-day visit, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, saw Radev meet with Bosnian leaders and discuss crucial issues such as regional security, economic development, and the ongoing EU accession process.
Radev was welcomed by Bosnia’s President Denis Beqirovi? and Serbian member of the Presidency, Željka Cvijanovi?. In a closed press meeting, Radev offered his condolences to the victims of Bosnia’s recent flood disaster, extending Bulgaria’s help in recovery efforts.
Addressing reporters, Radev emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s stability is vital for the security of the entire region. “The security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina are of strategic importance for the whole region. Bulgaria remains firmly committed to supporting the EU peacekeeping mission here, as it is crucial for maintaining peace and stability,” he said.
The Bulgarian President also spoke about the importance of Bosnia’s continued reforms as part of the EU enlargement process. He noted that the European Union is now more focused on the Western Balkans, partly due to changing geopolitical conditions. “The reforms you’re working on are essential for the enlargement process. They remain the main criteria for Bulgaria’s support,” Radev added.
Beqirovi? praised the visit as an opportunity to strengthen ties between Bulgaria and Bosnia, calling it “strategically important” for Bosnia to deepen its relations with EU and NATO countries. He also highlighted plans to boost cooperation in areas like tourism and investment. One proposal that stood out was Radev’s suggestion to establish direct flights between Sarajevo and Sofia, a move both sides agreed would help enhance relations.
Meanwhile, Cvijanovi? reiterated Bosnia’s determination to join the EU and thanked Bulgaria for its continued support. She stressed that while Bosnia is committed to progress, it also aims to set realistic, short-term objectives on its path to membership.
Radev’s visit comes at a time when the EU is placing renewed focus on the Western Balkans, underscoring the region’s importance for both security and economic stability in Europe.
