The United States Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Eric Nelson talked today with the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and leader of the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) Milorad Dodik about the appointment of Christian Schmidt as the new High Representative in B&H.

Nelson emphasized the US support for the new High Representative in B&H and the vital role of the OHR in implementing the Dayton Peace Agreement.

-We encourage political leaders to focus on the reforms needed to advance B&H's European path and improve the economy so that B&H depends as little as possible on international supervision. The rhetoric of division only slows down the progress that will benefit all citizens of B&H- it was stated on the Twitter account of the US Embassy in B&H.

Schmidt was appointed High Representative in B&H last week, while he is due to take office on August 1. Valentin Inzko, who has held the post so far, has resigned.

As the eighth High Representative of the international community in B&H, Schmidt announced that the basis of his activities in B&H will be to work in agreement with representatives of the international community, elected officials, B&H citizens and young people.

Immediately after Schmidt's appointment, Dodik said that "Republic of Srpska does not accept the appointment of a German diplomat as High Representative in B&H, nor any of his competencies," assessing that "it is a non-procedural appointment."

Political representatives from the entity of Republic of Srpska should meet with the President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, tomorrow with the aim to discuss this appointment.