Following the formal application submitted today by Bosnia and Herzegovina to join the European Union, MEP Jozo Radoš (HNS, Croatia), ALDE rapporteur, has welcomed the decision, which comes one year after both sides signed the Stabilisation and Association Agreement:

"The decision by the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to apply for membership of the European Union reflects the will of the majority of its citizens. ALDE supports this application because accession into the EU would facilitate the implementation of reforms, contribute to the stabilisation of internal relations and the development of democracy and institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It will, of course, bring prosperity to the citizens of this country, and will also contribute to stability and peace in the Western Balkans. I hope that the accession process will go smoothly and fast. EU membership for Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the interest of its citizens, in the interest of the entire neighbourhood and in the interest of the EU as a whole."

Bosnia has finally submitted its application for EU membership, after more than 15 years of slowdowns in the implementation of political and civil society reforms due to deep divisions between its Serb, Croat and Muslim communities. Integration with Europe is seen as a means to bring the economy of the country back on track, increasing trust amongst investors, which are being discouraged by high levels of corruption.   

ENDS