Letter of Melanie Joly

Dr. Emir Ramic President Institute for Research of Genocide Canada ramicemir123@gmail.com Dear Doctor Ramic: Thank you for your correspondence of January 6, 2024, concerning the commemoration of the Day of Republika Srpska on January 9. I note that the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina has made clear in multiple rulings that the commemoration of the Day of Republika Srpska on January 9 is unconstitutional. We expect all entities to comply fully with the decisions of the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including the final and binding rulings of the Constitutional Court. Canada remains steadfastly committed to the territorial integrity and fundamental structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina and supports ongoing efforts to promote enhanced stability and strengthen democratic institutions, including by its current High Representative Christian Schmidt. Canada continues to work with the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as international partners toward the full implementation of the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement as a member of the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board of the Office of the High Representative. We fully support the mandate and actions of the High Representative. Canada has a keen interest in seeing the development of Bosnia and Herzegovina into a stable, secure and multi-ethnic democracy, and supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s full integration into Euro-Atlantic structures. Canada continues to encourage all Bosnian officials to take every step to see these goals realized. Canada is also working closely with allies and partners to further peace and stability in the country and the Western Balkans. Please be assured that we will continue to monitor the situation closely and support efforts toward ensuring the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the processes in place. Thank you for writing. Sincerely, The Honourable Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P.