EU-Bosnia And Herzegovina Stabilization And Association Agreement In Force

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The Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) between the European Union and Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) entered into force Monday. The SAA establishes a close partnership between the EU and BiH and deepens the political, economic and trade ties between the two parties. It is from now on the main framework for the relations between the EU and BiH begins, further preparing the country for future EU membership.

EU High Representative Federica Mogherini said "Today's full entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement is a milestone on Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU path. New chapter begins. Political clarity, decisive action and a real, coordinated effort by institutions at all levels are now needed to develop and implement the reform agenda. Tangible results will be fundamental for the Council to consider a membership application in the future. An overwhelming majority of BiH citizens want their country to join the EU and the leadership of the country needs to redouble its engagement and meet citizens' expectations."

Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, welcomed the entry into force of the SAA as "a defining moment in the relations between the EU and Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as an agreement which firmly sets BiH on an EU-accession path. At the same time, the SAA also brings new responsibilities stemming from its implementation and for BiH authorities to deliver upon." He made it clear that "The Commission will spare no effort assisting the country's authorities in the implementation of the necessary reform agenda."

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