Staša Košarac, the Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations in the Council of Ministers, held talks in Abu Dhabi with the State Minister of Economy and Trade in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Ahmed el Sajeg, regarding possible UAE investments in Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. There was expressed interest in the energy, agriculture, industry, and tourism sectors.
The meeting addressed strengthening cooperation and improving foreign trade between BiH and the UAE. Discussions also touched upon the benefits of joining BRICS, given that the UAE is set to become a member of this union in early 2024.
Košarac emphasized his support for BiH’s membership in BRICS, stating that Republika Srpska supports this initiative. However, he noted that unfortunately, the Federation of BiH does not have a positive stance on this matter.
Sajeg conveyed that BiH would have full political and economic support from the UAE if it becomes a member of BRICS, as stated by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations in the Council of Ministers.
Košarac and Sajeg welcomed the decision to lift visas for citizens of BiH traveling to the Emirates, considering it a significant step in improving cooperation in tourism and connectivity, alongside existing direct flight connections between the two countries.
The focus of the discussion was on signing an agreement on the improvement and protection of investments between BiH and the UAE. It was highlighted that the text of the agreement is in the final stages of alignment, and its signing is expected in the first quarter of the next year.
The ministers exchanged opinions on opening new markets for placing domestic products, emphasizing the importance of signing free trade agreements.
The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of BiH to the UAE, Bojan Đokić, and the non-resident Ambassador of the UAE to BiH, Nabila el Šamsi.
Košarac is on a working visit to the UAE, where he also visited the international event “Dubai Airshow,” as reported by RTRS.
