European Parliament
Borut Pahor (PSE ).
(SL)
I believe that Bosnia is currently at a very sensitive point, which could be described as a transition from a period when its main aspiration was peace to a period when its main aspiration is development. Since this is clearly understood in the wording of the resolution as the two opening speakers most eloquently told us, I lend my support to the wording of the resolution.
I would however like to point out that in my opinion the strengthening of central authority in Bosnia is crucially important to its future. I personally do not believe that Bosnia can become a developed and secure state in the future if the decision-making processes in that country are not simplified.
These highly complex decision-making processes have been and still are to a large extent geared to preserving peace and to fostering cooperation between the three national communities. But if Bosnia wants to make genuine progress, its political decision-making must be simplified root and branch and must be made more transparent and, of course, more democratic, with greater power for the central authorities and a reduced presence on the part of the representatives of the international community.
I believe that all of this is required if the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are to feel more self-confident, more than you may feel today on the streets of their country if you visit it.
(applause)

