Minister Konaković met with the Chairman of the OSCE and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation, Ignazio Cassis

On February 20, 2026, Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, met with Ignazio Cassis, the Chairman of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation, during Cassis's working visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The meeting began with a private discussion between the two ministers at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by a discussion among the delegations from both ministries. Afterward, Minister Konaković and Minister Cassis held a press conference.

Minister Konaković highlighted that several important topics regarding bilateral relations were discussed. He placed particular emphasis on the OSCE Mission's activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the organization's global role at a time marked by wars and numerous challenges. He noted that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a full member of the OSCE, where decisions are made by consensus. This platform is unique, as it allows for Russia's active participation, which complicates processes further. He stated that the immediate priorities within the OSCE are the adoption of its budget and ensuring its functionality, areas in which Bosnia and Herzegovina fully supports, recognizing the importance of the OSCE's work. Minister Konaković also mentioned that Minister Cassis's visit to Sarajevo follows a trend of high-level OSCE officials visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina recently. He specifically pointed out that preparations for the General Elections in 2026 were a significant focus of their discussions. He commended the strong cooperation with the OSCE Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly concerning the procurement of equipment needed for conducting fair elections. Konaković expressed hope that local politicians, especially those in the Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Finance, would understand the significance of this process and ensure that the elections are held in the most democratic context since the end of the war. He also briefed Minister Cassis on the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, describing it as the most severe crisis since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, while also noting that the country faces significant opportunities for progress.

Minister Cassis emphasized that the upcoming October elections were a key topic of their discussion, stressing the need for them to be transparent and fair. He underscored the importance of using appropriate technology to ensure a credible election process and prevent potential abuses. Cassis urged all three members of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency to collaborate with the OSCE in securing funds for the necessary equipment. He asserted that free elections are fundamental to democracy and highlighted the importance of balancing decentralization and centralization of power-a topic in which Switzerland has particular expertise.

Cassis also addressed regional cooperation, stating that accelerating the European integration process for the Western Balkans is crucial for the stability of the entire European continent. He affirmed Switzerland's continued support for Bosnia and Herzegovina and the OSCE's work, as well as efforts to promote dialogue and stability in the region. Additionally, he reminded attendees that Switzerland has been involved in development cooperation in Bosnia and Herzegovina since 1996, investing approximately 15 million Swiss francs annually.