ZAGREB, 16 April (Hina) – Croatian PMВ Andrej Plenković said in Mostar on Tuesday that the EU’s decision to launch accession talks with BiH was a turning point for the country, announcing Croatia’s strong support for the continuation of the process, which, he said, should secure the equality of BiH’s three constituent peoples.

Plenković made the statement at the opening of the International Business Fair in Mostar, southern Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“This fair is being held at a time that is particularly important for BiH,” following the European Council’s decision to open accession talks with BiH, Plenković said.

“The importance of that decision is far-reaching, it defines the future and the European journey of Bosnia and Herzegovina with its three constituent peoples and all citizens,” he said.

The difficult path before BiH will include the transformation of the entire society, Plenković said, promising Croatia’s support in the process.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the five main export markets for Croatia and its second main investment destination, and in 2023 trade between the two countries amounted to slightly less than €4 billion.

Plenković again called on BiH politicians to reach an agreement on the construction of the Southern Gas Interconnection between Croatia and BiH to enable the diversification of gas supply for the country.

Forty-two companies from Croatia are participating in the Mostar fair.