India and Bosnia and Herzegovina convened their 4th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Sarajevo on November 28, 2024, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations. The meeting provided a platform for both nations to review and strengthen their ties across various sectors, including politics, trade, science and technology, cultural exchange, and tourism.
Key Takeaways
- Political Relations: Progress in political ties was acknowledged, with discussions on enhancing collaboration.
- Economic Cooperation: Focus on expanding trade and investment opportunities.
- Cultural Exchange: Emphasis on promoting student and youth exchanges and tourism.
- Multilateral Engagement: Discussions included cooperation in BRICS, UN, EU, and NAM.
Overview of the Consultations
The Indian delegation was led by Arun Kumar Sahu, Additional Secretary (Central Europe) from the Ministry of External Affairs, while the Bosnian side was represented by Tarik Bukvic, Head of the Department for Asia and Africa in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The consultations underscored the growing depth of their bilateral relations, with both sides expressing a commitment to further collaboration.
Political and Economic Discussions
During the consultations, both delegations conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral, regional, and international issues. Key areas of focus included:
- Political Relations: The progress made in political relations was highlighted, with both sides exploring avenues for deeper collaboration.
- Trade and Investment: The discussions centered on identifying untapped opportunities for mutual economic growth, emphasizing the importance of trade and investment.
Science and Technology Cooperation
Science and technology cooperation was a significant agenda item, with both nations exploring partnerships in innovation and research. This collaboration aims to enhance technological capabilities and foster innovation in both countries.
Cultural Exchange Initiatives
Cultural exchange emerged as a vital area of focus, with both sides recognizing the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections. Plans for student and youth exchange programs were discussed, alongside initiatives to promote tourism between India and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Regional and Global Issues
The consultations also addressed significant regional and global issues of mutual concern. Both sides exchanged views on developments in their respective neighborhoods and discussed multilateral platforms, including BRICS, the United Nations, the European Union, and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Future Engagements
As both nations prepare to celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, this meeting took on special significance. The long-standing partnership reflects a history of warm and friendly relations, with both countries committed to strengthening their multi-faceted partnership.
The next round of Foreign Office Consultations is scheduled to be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient time, signaling a continued commitment to deepening cooperation and achieving shared goals.
Sources
- India, Bosnia and Herzegovina hold 4th Foreign Office Consultations, India News Network.
- India, Bosnia & Herzegovina hold 4th foreign consultations, boost ties | External Affairs Defence Security News – Business Standard, Business Standard.
- India, Bosnia and Herzegovina Hold 4th Foreign Office Consultations – GKToday, GKToday.
- World News | India, Bosnia and Herzegovina Hold 4th Foreign Office Consultations, Strengthen Bilateral Ties | LatestLY, LatestLY.
- India and Bosnia & Herzegovina Strengthen Ties at 4th Foreign Office Consultations, Adda247.
