The Italian government on Thursday hailed the historic decision by the European Union to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Italy’s Government is highly satisfied with the European Council’s historic decision to open EU accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said a statement issued by the premier’s office at Palazzo Chigi.

“Firmly sought by Italy, this objective offers a clear EU perspective to Sarajevo,” it continued.

“Italy will continue to encourage and support the Bosnian government to committedly pursue the reform path it has started.

“With this decision, the European Union sends a clear and unequivocal message not only to Sarajevo, but to all the Western Balkans,” the statement concluded.

Earlier European Council President Charles Michel announced in a tweet that EU leaders gathered in Brussels for the two-day summit had just decided to open accession negotiations with the Balkan state.

“Congratulations! Your place is in our European family.

Today’s decision is a major step forward on your path towards the EU,” Michel wrote on X.
“Now the hard work must continue for Bosnia and Herzegovina to move forward steadily, as your people want,” he added.