Brussels, 08/11/2004 (Agence Europe) - The sixth inter-parliamentary meeting between the EU and Bosnia-Herzegovina that took place on Wednesday in Mostar highlighted the need to continue efforts of reform and economic policy in Bosnia, to ensure that refugees returned, for improving the independence of the legal system, cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and promotion of economic growth.
While welcoming the political reforms taken by the country, MEPs consider that "significant progress" is needed on all the points identified by the European Commission in its feasibility study for concluding an association and stabilisation agreement. The Bosnian authorities must do all they can to allow state institutional and bodies (in Bosnia) to work effectively. Although efforts have been made in the area of regulation, they still needed solid implementation as a follow up. The Bosnian parliament also had to adopt certain laws in vital areas for sustaining the reform process, especially on VAT. The number of displaced persons returning to Bosnia was increasing, the MEPs were pleased to announce, but regretted that few Croats were able to return to the Republic Srpska". They are therefore calling on the authorities in the country to facilitate the return of refugees, notably by resolving the pending questions involving property.
Although the security situation has improved in the country many threats still remain (organised crime, drug trafficking, corruption). In this context, it is imperative to improve the independence of the courts and judges. MEPs welcome the sending of the EU's ALTHEA mission to Bosnia-Herzegovina at the end of the year, particularly because it is not limited to military aspects but includes political, training and development aspects as well. They underline, however the need for more effort in getting rid of land mines and rehabilitating victims of mines in the region. While taking note of the willingness of the Bosnian authorities to co-operate fully with the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY), delegations are calling on the Srpska Republic and its government to take decisive measures to co-operate with the ICTY. The EU's military and police forces will be deployed in Bosnia and will have to closely co-operate with the Bosnian authorities to hunt war criminals and fight against all terrorist threats.
Economically, progress has been achieved but efforts are needed for improving the investment climate, creating new jobs, fighting against the brain drain and strengthening social cohesion. Measures should include all social and minority groups, particularly the Roms. MEPs expressed concerns about trade and the public deficit which reflected a production and export capability that was weak. They are calling on the authorities to continue privatisation of the major state industries to help the private sector promote domestic growth.