‘Turkey contributes to solution of regional problems in Balkans’

SARAJEVO, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Turkey contributes to the solution of regional problems in the Balkans, said the head of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Party of Democratic Action.

In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Bakir Izetbegovic said Turkey pursues a wise policy and diplomacy in the region.

Noting that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has always been a friend of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bosnians, Izetbegovic said that the Belgrade-Sarajevo highway Project supported by Turkey is a good opportunity to work together.

The Bosnia politician underlined that the highway project is of great importance not only for Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also for all countries in the region, both financially and in terms of infrastructure.

"The project will also contribute to the reduction of tension between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. The project will lead us to make joint decisions and meet in common interests," he added.

On the arrest of former Bosnian police officer Edin Vranj by Serbia over accusation of “war crimes,” Izetbegovic said should not have been detained.

“We expect a peaceful, friendly and respectful attitude towards Muslims in the Balkans from the Serbian President,” he added.

"Serbia needs good relations with the EU, its friends in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Islamic world and Turkey. Thus, I think Serbia will give up what it's doing now and everything will go back to normal," he said.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan