Mr. President, 

For some time now, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been facing growing challenges. The election law reform is beset with difficulties. The formation of new government shows little progress, and the parties are increasingly at odds over national governance models. China is of the view that the issues facing BiH should ultimately be resolved by its people. We encourage all parties in BiH to put the interest of the country and the people first, step up dialogue and consultations, accommodate each other’s concerns, implement comprehensively and to the letter the Dayton Peace Agreement and within the framework of the Constitution, properly address relevant differences, promote development of the country and achieve national reconciliation. China calls on the international community to take an impartial, balanced and prudent approach, take into full account views of all parties and avoid imposing external solutions.

As regards the issue of the High Representative, views differ among the parties in BiH over the High Representative system. China reiterates that according to the Dayton Peace Agreement, the Security Council has an undeniable role to play in the appointment process of the High Representative. This has long been an established practice and should be fully respected. The system of the High Representative and the Bonn powers thereof were special arrangements of a special era. The international community should offer help to BiH in ways that adapt to the evolving situation. 

China welcomes the EU's efforts in helping BiH maintain peace and stability. We hope that EUFOR Althea will continue to play a positive role in areas such as maintaining security and stability in BiH, assisting BiH armed forces with the disposal of weapons and ammunition and demining, and assisting the country with combating terrorism and organized crime. 

Mr. President, 

China has always respected the sovereignty, independence, national unity and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and respected the choice of the people of BiH for the future of their country. We believe that the people of BiH have the ability and wisdom to resolve the problems facing them. China has all along been a good partner of BiH for peace and development. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, we have donated multiple batches of medical supplies to BiH, organized virtual exchanges between medical experts of the two countries, and exported and donated COVID-19 vaccines to BiH. China stands ready to work with the international community and continuously contribute to the promotion of national reconciliation in BiH, helping it achieve lasting stability and development and maintaining peace and stability in the country and the West Balkans. 

I thank you, Mr. President.