Statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia

In light of media reports regarding the delivery of a protest note by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the institutions of Serbia, we must express our astonishment at the content and intent of such a diplomatic démarche, particularly in view of recent actions by official Sarajevo.

It is profoundly disconcerting that Sarajevo's authorities deem it appropriate to issue protest notes to Serbia while officially welcoming Albin Kurti, whose policies and actions manifestly infringe upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia. This act represents a flagrant disregard for Serbia's position on Kosovo and Metohija, a stance solidly founded on international law and upheld by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.

The reception of Kurti in Sarajevo was not merely an isolated affront to Serbia but also a dangerous precedent undermining regional stability and mutual respect. By this act, Sarajevo has consciously disregarded the legitimate and legal interests of Serbia, further straining the relations between our two nations.

The issuance and publication of this note are further confirmation that its authors are disinterested in fostering neighborly relations and necessary cooperation, preferring instead to engage in media skirmishes to possibly gain political points, thus underestimating the public in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. In contrast, Serbia has consistently demonstrated the highest respect for the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. At no point have we ever questioned the integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a state. Additionally, Serbia has impeccably met its obligations under the Dayton Peace Agreement, contributing to peace and stability in the region. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for certain political actors in Sarajevo, whose rhetoric and actions often contradict the principles of the Dayton Agreement, fostering divisions and instability within Bosnia and Herzegovina itself.

Serbia has always endeavored to build constructive and correct relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina, based on mutual respect and cooperation. We urge our colleagues in Sarajevo to reflect on their actions and their implications for regional stability. We firmly believe that dialogue and mutual understanding, not unilateral provocations, should guide our relations as neighbors.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia reaffirms its commitment to peace, stability, and good neighborly relations in the Western Balkans and calls on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina to do the same.