UNSC Debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina

[Wednesday, 11 May 2022; 1000 hrs EDT/ 1930 hrs IST]

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Madam President, let me begin by thanking Mr. Christian Schmidt (TBC) for his briefing on the latest report, submitted pursuant to Security Council Resolution 1031.

2. The General Framework Agreement for Peace (GFAP) is fundamental for building enduring peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. GFAP continues to define the framework to find solutions related to inter-ethnic conflict settlement through dialogue of the parties on the basis of equality and mutual respect, compromise and consensus. The Office of the High Representative (OHR), as an ad-hoc international institution mechanism, has been overseeing the implementation of the civilian aspects of the Agreement.

3. The disagreement over the Office of the High Representative needs to be resolved through constructive engagement, in line with the Peace Agreement. The expeditious implementation of the 5+2 agenda should continue to remain the top priority for OHR.

4. However, we remain concerned that the recent political developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina undermine the progress made in the last 25 years. To realize the objectives of the General Framework Agreement for Peace, all sides need to engage in dialogue with a spirit of mutual understanding and empathy towards each other’s positions.

5. We must support all endeavours towards cooperation, development and peace and avoid divisive rhetoric that could undermine the Peace Agreement. We hope all parties and leaders will re-commit themselves to work together in a constructive and inclusive manner. In this regard, it is important that the OHR works with all parties objectively, understand differing viewpoints and aim to build trust and strengthen the constitutional framework of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

6. We reiterate that the GFAP provides the basis to find solutions related to inter-ethnic conflict settlement through dialogue of the parties based on equality and mutual respect, compromise and consensus.

7. In conclusion Madam President, India supports all efforts, including that of the EU, in promoting dialogue and compromise, towards the implementation of the Peace Agreement.

I thank you.

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