Edward Ferguson presents his credentials to Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina
British Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Edward Ferguson, presented his credentials to Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bakir Izetbegovic.
Newly appointed Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E. Edward Ferguson, presented his credentials to Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E. Bakir Izetbegovic, on 19 August 2014.
In his address, which was given in local language, Ambassador Ferguson said:
Your Excellency,
It is a great privilege for me today to take up my role as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
I look forward to working with you and the other members of the Presidency.
The British Government is a longstanding friend of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a relationship based on mutual respect, practical support and constructive advice. The United Kingdom will continue to stand firmly with those who want to work towards a peaceful and prosperous future of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign and single country.
I come into this role at a time of hope that the forthcoming elections will unlock the reforms that this country desperately needs in order to take up its rightful place as a full member of the European family as soon as possible.
We hope to see elections that are focused on the real issues that affect ordinary people, regardless of party or ethnicity - improving education, creating jobs, rooting out corruption and cementing European values of justice and fairness for all.
For my part, I will do everything I can to continue in the tradition of my predecessors as a loyal friend and a constructive critic. I have already been lucky enough to spend some weeks living with families in Mostar and Banja Luka, and have seen something of the potential of this beautiful country and its wonderful people. I feel sure that there is a bright future for Bosnia and Hercegovina, and my family and I are looking forward to being a part of that.
I thank you for your warm welcome and convey to you the best wishes of Her Majesty The Queen, and from the Government and people of the United Kingdom.