NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the alliance supports the sovereignty and integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing that it will not allow the “hard-earned” peace in the country to be put at risk.
In a press conference in Sarajevo, following his meeting with the members of the tripartite Presidency, Rutte said that the current situation is not like 1992, when the war in Bosnia began.
Rutte’s visit took place at a time when the authorities of Republika Srpska, threatening secession, have attempted to halt the functioning of state institutions of justice and police within the territory of the entity.
“I have heard concerns about the security situation. Let me be clear, this situation is not like 1992, and we will not allow a security vacuum to be created. The international community is here and is committed to continuing our strong support, including through EUFOR,” Rutte said.
Rutte emphasized that NATO supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and the Dayton Peace Agreement, which he said is the cornerstone of peace in Bosnia.
“Incendiary rhetoric and actions are dangerous. They pose a great threat to the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and security,” Rutte stated.
