Minister Konaković met with the Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories of the UK, Stephen Doughty

Elmedin Konaković, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, met with Stephen Doughty, the Minister of State for Europe, North America, and Overseas Territories at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in Sarajevo on July 7, 2026.

They discussed the current political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the process of European integration, reform priorities, the role of the international community, and ways to enhance further bilateral cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Kingdom.

Minister Konaković expressed gratitude to the United Kingdom for its consistent support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order, as well as for its ongoing support for reform processes and the country's European integration.

The conversation primarily focused on the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly regarding the preservation of institutional stability and the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. Minister Konaković emphasized that political stability and functional institutions are essential prerequisites for continuing European integration, which is why maintaining the full mandate of the Office of the High Representative is crucial. He stated that the Bonn powers should not be applied frequently but should exist as a guarantee for protecting the Dayton Peace Agreement, the constitutional order, state institutions, and the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina until the fulfillment of the 5+2 conditions.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the selection of a new high representative, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong and credible international engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Minister Konaković pointed out that the future high representative must be dedicated to the consistent protection of the Dayton Peace Agreement, the constitutional order, and the functionality of Bosnia and Herzegovina's institutions.

They also addressed the increasing malignant external influences in the Western Balkans and their detrimental effects on European integration and regional stability. It was noted that such influences serve the geopolitical interests of the Russian Federation in the region. Minister Konaković remarked that Bosnia and Herzegovina's European path continues to be hindered by ongoing blockades and secessionist policies from Milorad Dodik and the SNSD, which slow down the reform process and undermine the functionality of state institutions. However, he acknowledged the growing pro-European commitment among opposition political actors in the Republic of Srpska, viewing it as a positive sign that could encourage continued reforms and European integration.

Minister Doughty reaffirmed the United Kingdom's steadfast support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order of Bosnia and Herzegovina, asserting that the UK remains a reliable partner in preserving peace, stability, and democratic development in the country. He conveyed his full support for the mandate and powers of the Office of the High Representative, emphasizing the importance of closely coordinating with international partners to protect the Dayton Peace Agreement, uphold stability, and advance reform processes.The two ministers confirmed their mutual commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in energy, economy, and investments, while expressing interest in developing new projects that will contribute to resilience, sustainable economic development, and the European perspective of Bosnia and Herzegovina.