Deputy Minister of Defense in the Council of Ministers Aleksandar Goganović has emphasized that regional cooperation, mutual trust and respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement are essential to maintaining stability in BiH and the wider Western Balkans. Speaking at an international security conference in Budva, he called for responsible political dialogue and stronger cooperation among neighboring countries.
Addressing relations between BiH and NATO, Goganović said cooperation was progressing in a constructive atmosphere, with consideration for the different political positions within BiH.
“NATO respects the fact that there is a consensus in BiH on cooperation, but not on membership in the Alliance. This approach is precisely what allows successful partnership relations to continue,” Goganović emphasized.
Goganović calls for political dialogue and respect for Dayton
Commenting on the political situation following the elections, Goganović urged political leaders to reduce tensions and focus on constructive dialogue.
“The elections took place in a democratic atmosphere, and it is time to turn toward the future. As someone who comes from Republika Srpska, I want 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 three constituent peoples,” he stated.
He stressed that respecting the constitutional framework established by the Dayton Agreement remains central to maintaining political stability and institutional cooperation in BiH.
Regional cooperation essential for responding to crises
Goganović highlighted the importance of improving relations among BiH, Serbia, Montenegro and Croatia, particularly in areas involving emergency response, natural disasters and crisis management.
He emphasized that neighboring countries should strengthen their capacity to cooperate and provide mutual assistance during emergencies.
“At a time of major geopolitical challenges, we must strengthen regional trust. We are each other’s closest neighbors and the first who can come to one another’s assistance during natural disasters. A stable Western Balkans also means a safer Europe,” Goganović said.
He argued that practical cooperation in responding to shared challenges could contribute to greater confidence and stability throughout the region.
European integration must be based on agreement and equality
Goganović concluded that BiH remains committed to its European path, emphasizing that progress must be based on dialogue, equality and mutual agreement.
He stressed that the country’s European future should be developed with full respect for the constitutional position established by the Dayton Peace Agreement and with consideration for the positions of both Republika Srpska and the Federation of BiH.
According to Goganović, regional stability and European integration depend on respecting the constitutional framework and maintaining cooperation among all political representatives in BiH.
Source: RTRS
