Press Release: Summary note on the joint report ‘EU’s policy in Bosnia and Herzegovina: the way ahead’ by Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CESP, and Olli Rehn, EU Commissioner for Enlargement

Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is a potential candidate country with its own unique challenges. A tailor-made strategy and strong international engagement, including active and comprehensive use of all EU's tools and mechanisms, will be necessary to keep it moving forward steadily towards the European Union. The report outlined a comprehensive strategy for a reinforced European engagement. It presented ideas on the transition from Office of the High Representative (OHR) to increased local ownership supported by a strengthened EU presence. The report buildt on previous joint papers on the EU's policy in BiH, and is by nature preliminary. Further reflection will be needed in the coming months. The decision to close the OHR remains subject to review and confirmation by the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board.