Balkans | The Vatican welcomes the granting of Bosnia and Herzegovina the status of a candidate country for membership in the European Union

Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of Catholics and the head of the Vatican, met with the President of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Borgana Cristo.

In a written statement from the Vatican, it was reported that, in addition to the Pope, Christo also met with the Vatican Secretary of State (Prime Minister) Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations (Foreign Minister) Monsignor Paul Richard Gallagher.

He stated during the talks that they discussed the relations between the Vatican and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the situation of the Catholics in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and some open issues in the relations between the church and the state.

In the statement, in which it was noted that Christo’s contacts in the Vatican also focused on the internal agenda of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the need to promote the legal and social equality of citizens belonging to each constituent community, the importance of inclusive dialogue between all political actors and the general interest of Bosnia and Herzegovina were emphasized. In addition, the issue of enlargement of the European Union was discussed and it was noted with satisfaction that Bosnia and Herzegovina was granted candidate status.” Expressions were used.

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