📋 Tender Overview
In addition to the EU integration process and a wide range of projects within the framework of parliamentary cooperation, security policy aspects were the focus of the exchange. The participants of the meeting agreed that the unity of Europe, including the countries of the Western Balkans, is becoming increasingly important from a geostrategic and security point of view. Sobotka welcomed Bosnia and Herzegovina's progress in the fight against organised crime through the definitive establishment of a Europol contact point and the efforts to manage migration through the introduction of a new action plan.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Sobotka stressed the need for a united approach by the EU and the candidate countries, strategic patience and continued pressure on Russia. Awareness of Russian disinformation and destabilisation attempts must also be raised, especially in view of the upcoming elections, Sobotka stressed. Austria is also committed to a thorough and independent investigation of war crimes and continues to stand behind the sanctions against Russia, Sobotka said.
The situation in Israel and Gaza was also discussed. It was stressed that international humanitarian law is non-negotiable and must apply to all parties involved. Austria clearly stands behind Israel and its right to self-defense, Sobotka said. At the same time, it condemned the violence of Israeli settlers in the West Bank and provided humanitarian aid in Gaza and the region.
During his visit, President of the National Council Sobotka also met the Mayor of Sarajevo, Benjamina Kari?, as well as Jakob Finci, the President of the Jewish Community, and the Grand Mufti of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Husein Kavazovic.
