Balkans | Hungary supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s membership in the European Union

Hungarian President Katalin Novak indicated that his country supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s membership in the European Union.

Novak met with Željka Svijanović, a Serbian member and chairman of the Presidency Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who was in Budapest as part of his official visit, and then the two held a joint press conference.

Noting that Hungary is the best friend of the Western Balkan countries, Novak said it is gratifying that Bosnia and Herzegovina has been granted the status of a candidate country for accession to the European Union in December 2022 and that the process should continue without delay.

Novak noted that Western Balkan countries can always count on Hungary, “Hungary’s goal is to accelerate the EU membership process for Bosnia and Herzegovina to become a full member as soon as possible. We need Bosnia and Herzegovina within the EU. The EU also needs the Western Balkans and Bosnia and Herzegovina.” He said.

Novak stated that the Russian-Ukrainian war was also discussed at the meeting, and that his country and Bosnia and Herzegovina condemn Russian aggression and support Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

On the other hand, Zelica Svijanovic explained that Hungary plays the role of a bridge between her country and the countries of the Western Balkans and the European Union, and that she adopts a position that understands the countries of the Western Balkans.

Pointing out the importance for Hungary to take a serious interest in the Western Balkans region, Cvijanovic said that the economic cooperation between the two countries is very good.

Çivanovic also stressed that the EU should take a more rational stance towards the Western Balkans.

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