NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 24 – Italy stands by the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina and fully supports their quest for better opportunities and prospects. “We know that the ultimate future of the country lies in the EU, and we will spare no effort to help Bosnia and Herzegovina move decisively along this path”, the Italian Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Stefano Stefanile told an Arria formula Security Council meeting.
“Such a strategic goal demands deep, modernizing reforms. Preserving local ownership of the process is crucial as well as a pragmatic and constructive approach. Substantial progress can be achieved if there is political will”, added Stefanile calling for a stronger role of civil society, as consistently advocated by Italy, including in the OSCE framework: “Only through a bottom-up approach can we guarantee that these reforms really respond to the needs and expectations of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, thus reinforcing the accountability of politicians and institutions”.
The meeting celebrated 25 years of enduring peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but “we should never forget the innocent victims – particularly the civilian ones – of that tragic conflict”, said Stefanile: “The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina demand a better future”. (@OnuItalia)
