Ambassador Raff Bukun-Olu Onemola

Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative

Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations

New York, NY

9th May, 2011


As Delivered

Let me welcome and thank the High Representative, Mr. Valentin Inzko, for his update on developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina since his last briefing (see S/PV.6421).

 We are pleased that the security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina has remained calm. We note with satisfaction the positive developments, including the implementation of the decision to abolish short term visa requirements for Bosnia and Herzegovina citizens holding biometric passports and the improved cooperation among the members of the Presidency. We welcome the further progress on rule of law issues, as well as improved relations with the country’s neighbours.

 In spite of such improvements, we note that several difficult challenges remain, including the persisting climate of distrust among the political leaders and the lack of political will in implementing the Dayton Peace Agreement. Those misgivings are responsible for the limited progress on key reforms required for Euro-Atlantic integration and the completion of the five objectives and two conditions for the closure of the Office of the High Representative. We encourage political leaders to commit to the necessary reforms and the entire international community to support the country’s efforts in that regard.

 There is an urgent need for political leaders to refrain from nationalistic and anti-Dayton rhetoric, surmount their differences and demonstrate their resolve to address those differences through dialogue. It is also essential to promote national reconciliation and engender political trust, and for political leaders to be doggedly determined to remain united as a single entity, despite all odds.

 We appreciate the valuable work of the High Representative and support his efforts to promote the entry of Bosnia and Herzegovina into the European Union and to facilitate the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement.

 We commend the role of the European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in collaboration with the armed forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in ensuring a safe and secure environment in the country. We welcome the contribution of regional and international partners in support of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s efforts to sustain peace, stability and economic progress in the country. We are convinced that, with diligence and the necessary support of the international community, including this Council, Bosnia and Herzegovina will realize the vision of a stable, peaceful and prosperous country.

 Finally, only political will to make concerted efforts at flexibility, consultative dialogue and respect for the various commitments made will ensure the sustainability of the progress built over the past few years.