Minister Konaković met with Irish Minister of State Thomas Byrne

On February 13, 2026, Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, met with Thomas Byrne, the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence in Ireland, during the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2026.

The interlocutors highlighted the friendly and cooperative relationship between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ireland, based on mutual trust and support. They discussed shared priorities and common interests, particularly in light of Ireland's upcoming presidency of the European Union, set to commence on July 1, 2026.

Minister Byrne noted that Ireland's EU presidency would focus on enhancing the Union's resilience and responding to current geopolitical challenges, alongside implementing the EU legislative agenda in the latter half of 2026. He emphasized that the expansion of the European Union would be a key priority for Ireland. He reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path toward EU membership, while fully supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. He also announced plans for an upcoming visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, underlining Ireland's dedication to strengthening political dialogue and partnership.

Minister Konaković expressed gratitude to Minister Byrne for Ireland's ongoing support for Bosnia and Herzegovina and indicated a willingness to enhance their cooperation. He specifically highlighted the importance of partnering with Ireland, a country that actively contributes to shaping European policies related to defence, security, and stability in the European neighbourhood.

Konaković reiterated the commitment of Bosnia and Herzegovina's institutions to continue on the European path, describing this as the strategic goal of the state and essential for its long-term stability and development. He expressed confidence that Bosnia and Herzegovina would meet the expected priorities by March of this year, including adopting two crucial laws: the Law on the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council, as well as appointing a chief negotiator. He emphasized that the full integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with other Western Balkan countries, into the European Union is vital for the long-term security and stability of both the region and Europe. Despite facing numerous challenges, including a complex constitutional arrangement and political blockades attributed to the SNSD (Alliance of Independent Social Democrats) and former President of Republika Srpska Milorad Dodik, Konaković reaffirmed that the European path remains the strategic priority for Bosnia and Herzegovina. He pointed out that such rhetoric and actions are part of a broader political concept promoted by the entire SNSD structure, despite clear messages from international partners and institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Minister Konaković stressed the importance of addressing this rhetoric and the policies stemming from it. He reminded that this was the purpose behind sending Milorad Dodik's lobbying contract to all relevant institutions and officials for review, which clearly showcases the intentions and objectives of such political activities. He concluded by asserting that it is crucial to halt these destructive political approaches for the sake of stability and the European perspective of Bosnia and Herzegovina.