Lord Stuart Peach’s visit underscored the UK’s ongoing commitment to promoting security, stability, and prosperity in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), while supporting its aspirations for

Euro-Atlantic integration.

During his three-day visit, Lord Peach held discussions with key political and military leaders to reinforce the UK’s dedication to BiH’s reform agenda and its future as part of the Euro-Atlantic community.

Political engagement

Lord Peach met with BiH Presidency members Željko Komšić and Denis Bećirović, Chairwoman of the BiH Council of Ministers Borjana Krišto, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmedin Konaković. Together, they discussed economic, political, and security challenges. Lord Peach reaffirmed the UK’s strong support for BiH’s reform efforts, emphasizing the importance of implementing sustainable changes that directly benefit the country’s citizens.

Strengthening military collaboration

In his meeting with the Chief of the BiH Armed Forces Joint Staff, General Gojko Knežević, and Deputies Major General Mirsad Ahmić and Major General Tomo Kolenda, Lord Peach highlighted the UK’s enduring commitment to security in the Western Balkans.

He praised BiH for successfully hosting the Women, Peace, and Security Chiefs of Defence Network Conference in partnership with the UK, and he commended the recent joint training initiatives between the armed forces of both countries. Lord Peach also stressed the importance of modernizing the BiH Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence to advance Euro-Atlantic integration goals.

Support for cultural institutions

Recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by cultural institutions in BiH, Lord Peach hosted a dinner with representatives from these vital organizations. He listened to their concerns and discussed potential solutions to ensure a sustainable future, including the importance of proper and timely funding. These institutions, he noted, are integral to preserving BiH’s shared history and values.

Broader regional engagement

Lord Peach’s visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina followed earlier stops in North Macedonia and Serbia, reflecting the UK’s active engagement across the Western Balkans region.

Through his visit, Lord Peach reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress toward a secure, stable, and prosperous future within the Euro-Atlantic community. Photo by Mark Rawlings, Wikimedia commons.