Europe must engage more firmly in Bosnia, says William Hague (UK)
(BRUSSELS2) The new British Minister for Foreign Affairs, William Hague, has made a beautiful declaration of love for the European Union. In an article which has just been published in EuropeWorld, he affirms his attachment to the European Union, to the
internal market and enlargement policy... and even the European External Action Service. Well almost ! " VS'is a fact — he thinks — that we Conservatives were not persuaded to have an EEAS as a service. Now its existence is a fact (...) And we must examine the most harmonious way for it to work. We will work closely with the High Representative on this topic ».
A carrot and stick policy for Bosnia
The most interesting passage of this article seems to me to be on Bosnia. " The EU is playing credibility for foreign affairs” believes William Hague, for whom the prospect of membership is " crucial for the stability of the Balkans ". The new head of British diplomacy thus pleads for “a more muscular and demanding European policy, particularly in Bosnia” who aims " one goal : a central government in Bosnia effective enough to fulfill its responsibilities vis-à-vis participation in NATO and the EU ". Europe must not hesitate to "use the stick like the carrot" he adds, specifying that there are strong arguments » plead in favor of “targeted sanctions against politicians who undermine the Bosnian state". Because the observation is clear, the State " not working today ". But he warns the consequences of a disintegration of Bosnia will be catastrophic. Breaking up the country into small ethnic independent countries would not only look like ethnic cleansing but also risk creating a failed state in the heart of Europe. »
Turkey's membership still essential
Turkey's accession file is stronger than ever also considers William Hague. Both from an economic point of view and from an energy security point of view, Turkey's membership would also be further proof to those who consider that there is a " clash of civilizations between the West and Islam and would make Turkey an ideal interlocutor between Europe and the Middle East He says.
(Photo credit: Foreign office)