Unexpected alliance in Sarajevo: Čović, Izetbegović, and opposition Serbs sign joint declaration

In a significant political development, five political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) have signed a joint declaration pledging cooperation on reforms and European integration, just four months before the country's general elections. The agreement, signed in Sarajevo, brings together parties affiliated with the European People's Party (EPP), including the HDZ BiH, HDZ 1990, Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Party of Democratic Progress (PDP), and the Serb Democratic Party (SDS).

The document, titled "Joint Declaration of EPP-linked Parties from BiH on European Values and Integration, Identity, Market Economy, and Rule of Law," commits signatories to upholding European values, the rule of law, and implementing domestic and international court rulings. The parties stated that the declaration forms a basis for strengthening political cooperation and stability within BiH.

Manfred Weber, President of the EPP, who was present for the signing, described the act as a "historic step" that could expedite reforms and move BiH closer to European Union membership. "We will be with our friends in BiH on their European path, monitor and evaluate the necessary steps and assist in the process," Weber told reporters.

“

We will be with our friends in BiH on their European path, monitor and evaluate the necessary steps and assist in the process.

The EPP's initiative aims to bridge the divides among BiH's political parties, many of whom are deeply fragmented and preparing for contentious elections. Notably, the signatory parties currently hold different positions within the government and opposition structures at various levels. The HDZ BiH, for instance, is part of the ruling coalition at the state level, often relying on partnerships with Milorad Dodik's Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD). Meanwhile, the HDZ BiH and the opposition HDZ 1990 are rivals, each fielding separate candidates for the BiH Presidency.

Despite these internal rivalries, HDZ BiH leader Dragan Čović spoke "affirmatively and positively" at the event, calling for the resolution of open issues in BiH to avoid burdening future generations. He emphasized that the European path remains the only viable option for BiH, regardless of existing differences.

“

Despite all differences, the European path is the only option without an alternative for BiH.