SARAJEVO (Reporteri) – NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that NATO will not allow the country’s hard-earned peace to be threatened.
Rutte made these remarks during his visit to Sarajevo on Monday, March 10, where he met with members of the country’s tripartite Presidency. Addressing the media, he stressed that the current situation in Bosnia is different from that of 1992, when the war broke out.
NATO’s Commitment to Bosnia’s Stability
“I have heard concerns regarding the security situation. Let’s be clear—this is not 1992, and we will not allow a security vacuum to emerge. The international community is here and fully engaged in maintaining strong support, including through EUFOR,” Rutte stated.
The NATO chief also emphasized that the Dayton Agreement remains the cornerstone of peace in Bosnia, warning against any inflammatory rhetoric or actions that undermine the constitutional order and state institutions, as they pose a serious threat to stability and security.
Calls for Dialogue Amid Republika Srpska’s Threats
Rutte called on Bosnia’s leaders to take responsibility for resolving internal political challenges, underscoring that regional stability depends on lasting reconciliation and peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
His visit comes amid escalating tensions, as Republika Srpska authorities have recently threatened secession and attempted to block the functioning of state judicial and law enforcement institutions in their territory.
