European Commission Vice President Jacques Barrot, in charge of Justice, Freedom and Security, launched a dialogue on visa free travel with Bosnia and Herzegovina in Brussels yesterday (26 May). The aim of this dialogue is to give clear indications to the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the measures that need to be taken before visa free travel can be granted to all its citizens.

"By opening the dialogue on visa free travel the European Union proves its determination towards achieving the common objective of free movement for the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina", said Vice President Barrot at the opening ceremony of the dialogue on visa free travel.

Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn added: "I welcome the launch of the dialogue to achieve visa free travel for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is particularly good news for the younger generation who, through mobility, will have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the EU. Visa free travel is also key for business, and thus for economic development and job creation. "

Since 1 January 2008, citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina enjoy the benefits of a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union. This agreement provides for easier access to visas for a broad range of categories of citizens ranging from students, sportsmen and women, cultural workers, journalists, people visiting family members living in the EU, people in need of medical treatment, economic operators working with EU companies, etc.

This meeting constitutes the next step and opened a dialogue with the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina which should lead to a visa free regime for all its citizens.

The EU will continue to assist Bosnia and Herzegovina politically and financially to fulfil the conditions for visa liberalisation.