Minister Konaković at the 3rd Makkah Halal Forum: Bosnia and Herzegovina Strengthens Its Position as a European Halal Hub

Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, participated in the 3rd Makkah Halal Forum, held from February 14 to 16, 2026, under the high patronage of H.E. Ph.D. Majid Al-Qasabia, the Minister of Trade of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

As part of the "Leader Talk" session entitled "Country Success - BiH's Capacity Building for Halal Economic Growth", Minister Konaković presented the strategic initiative of positioning Bosnia and Herzegovina as a European Halal Hub - a country that, thanks to its geographical, cultural and historical position, connects East and West, the markets of the European Union and the countries of the Gulf.

Minister Konaković emphasized Bosnia and Herzegovina's considerable potential to enhance its capabilities in developing the halal economy. Key strategies include obtaining recognized certifications, providing institutional support for exports, attracting investments, and fostering partnerships with GCC and OIC countries. He underscored the deep religious, cultural, and economic ties as a solid foundation for establishing sustainable and long-term strategic partnerships.

Minister Konaković held several meetings on the sidelines of the Forum, including discussions with the leadership of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), represented by Secretary General Jusuf Khalavi, and with a delegation from the Muslim Trade Forum (MTF) in the United Kingdom. He also engaged with representatives from Halal quality certification agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, and Croatia, and met with businessmen from Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Turkey, Thailand, Azerbaijan, and Egypt.

A special focus was placed on the initiative "Discover. Visit. Invest in Bosnia and Herzegovina - European Halal Hub," which includes organizing a central European business forum in Bosnia and Herzegovina dedicated to the halal industry.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the ICCD and the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, further strengthening institutional cooperation in developing halal standards, education, and international networking.