EU DELEGATION WELCOMES OPENING OF NEW GRADIŠKA BORDER CROSSING

SARAJEVO, MAY 19 /SRNA/ – The EU Delegation to BiH welcomed the swift reaction of competent authorities in approving a temporary solution that will enable the operational functioning of the new Gradiška border crossing following problems at the existing crossing caused by the collapse of a bridge.

The EU Delegation stated that such a temporary arrangement will help ease bottlenecks, improve the flow of goods and passengers, and provide immediate relief for transport operators and businesses.

"At the same time, the temporary measure highlights the need to move without delay toward a sustainable, long-term solution that ensures the full and predictable functioning of the crossing and allows the new border infrastructure, built with the financial support of the EU, to achieve its intended economic benefits," the EU Delegation posted on X.

The new border crossing in Gradiška with Croatia began operating tonight, a SRNA reporter on the scene reported.

The Ministry of Security of BiH earlier today issued a decision to redirect traffic to the new bridge in Gradiška.

The Ministry stated that the new bridge will be used during the suspension of traffic at the existing Gradiška border crossing, which occurred last night due to the collapse of part of the protective fence and pedestrian walkway on the old bridge over the Sava River.

The newly built border crossing and bridge, connecting BiH with the EU /Croatia/ on the country’s busiest route, worth EUR 100 million, had been ready for use since December last year. However, Zijad Krnjić repeatedly prevented its opening, allegedly for political reasons.

Krnjić’s blockade reportedly caused significant economic losses for Republika Srpska and BiH, as passengers and freight traffic were forced to use the already overloaded old crossing.