GOGANOVIĆ: MUTUAL TRUST AND RESPECT FOR THE DAYTON CRUCIAL FOR BiH AND THE WESTERN BALKANS STABILITY

BUDVA, OCTOBER 23 /SRNA/ – Deputy Minister of Defence in the Council of Ministers Aleksandar Goganović stated at the International Security Conference in Budva that regional cooperation, mutual trust, and respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement are crucial for the stability of BiH and the Western Balkans.

Speaking about BiH - NATO relations, Goganović stressed that cooperation is taking place in a constructive atmosphere, with respecting the political positions within BiH.

"NATO respects the fact that there is a consensus in BiH on cooperation, but not on membership in the Alliance. It is precisely this approach that enables successful partnership relations to continue," Goganović emphasized.

Commenting on the political situation following the elections, he called for tensions to be eased and for responsible dialogue.

"The elections took place in a democratic atmosphere. It is high time to turn to the future. As someone from Republika Srpska, I would like to make it clear that we insist on respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement and on decisions being made through agreement between the two entities and the three constituent peoples," Goganović stressed.

He particularly emphasized the importance of improving relations between BiH, Serbia, Montenegro, and Croatia, especially through cooperation in responding to natural disasters and crisis situations.

"At a time of major geopolitical challenges, we must strengthen regional trust. We are one another's immediate neighbours and the first to be able to come to each other's aid in the event of natural disasters. A stable Western Balkans also means a safer Europe," Goganović said.

He concluded that BiH remains committed to the European path, but that its European future can be built only on agreement, equality, and respect for the Dayton framework, respecting the positions of Republika Srpska and the FBiH.