Brussels, 27/05/2008 (Agence Europe) - In Brussels on Monday 26 May, European Commission Vice President Jacques Barrot, in charge of Justice, Freedom and Security, launched a dialogue on visa-free travel with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The aim of this dialogue is to give clear indications to the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the measures that need to be taken before visa-free travel can be granted to all its citizens. “By opening the dialogue on visa free travel the European Union proves its determination towards achieving the common objective of free movement for the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Barrot at the ceremony marking the opening of the dialogue. European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn welcomed “the launch of (this) dialogue … It is particularly good news for the younger generation who, through mobility, will have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the EU. Visa free travel is also key for business, and thus for economic development and job creation,” he added.
Since 1 January 2008, citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina have enjoyed the benefits of a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union. This agreement makes it easier for a broad range of categories of citizens to obtain visas, students, sportsmen and women, cultural workers, journalists, people visiting family members living in the EU, people in need of medical treatment, economic operators working with EU companies, etc. Monday's meeting was the next step and opened a dialogue with the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina which should lead to a visa free regime for all its citizens. “The EU will continue to assist Bosnia and Herzegovina politically and financially to fulfil the conditions for visa liberalisation,” the Commission said in a press release. (O.L.)