Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 February 2022
431. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland is committed to ensuring peace and stability in Bosnia-Herzegovina; his views on the recent actions by the President of Republika Srpska in this context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4267/22]
View answerIreland remains unequivocally committed to the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Bosnia- Herzegovina. As a member of the UN Security Council, we are actively engaged in efforts to promote greater dialogue and political stability within Bosnia-Herzegovina as well as support for the Institutions established under the Dayton Peace Accords. Ireland also contributes a small number of PDF personnel to the important EUFOR Althea Mission whose mandate was renewed by the Security Council last October.
Along with our EU and international Partners, Ireland shares the concerns regarding the growing polarisation and divisive actions being taken by certain parties within Bosnia-Herzegovina and which is manifest in the current refusal of the Republika Srpska authorities, led by President Dodik, to participate fully in the State Institutions. It is welcome that President Dodik has given some recent indications of his willingness for the Republika Srpska authorities to return to full participation in the Institutions. Pressure, however, will need to be maintained by the EU, US and international community to ensure that this commitment is now followed through.
There is an obligation on all parties within Bosnia-Herzegovina to work actively to lower current political tensions within the country and to cooperate to advance work on the EU reform agenda which remains critical for advancing the country’s political and economic fortunes.
In this regard, Ireland fully support the efforts being undertaken by EU Special Representative Sattler and High Representative Christian Schmidt to get all the parties engaging in constructive dialogue on how to address the many challenges facing Bosnia-Herzegovina.
I would also call on all those who can, particularly among Bosnia-Herzegovina’s neighbours and regional partners, to continue to exert influence and encourage dialogue to reduce current tensions.
