BiH-China ties: A partnership of respect, sovereignty and shared growth

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By Sinisa Berjan

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and the People's Republic of China (PRC). Over the past three decades, despite global challenges and shifting geopolitical dynamics, our two countries have stood together, guided by the principles of mutual respect, non-interference and sovereign equality.

The story of BiH-China relations is one of steady growth, rooted in a deep understanding of each other's aspirations. Since establishing official ties in 1995, we have seen continued progress across political, economic, educational and cultural dimensions. It is a relationship based not only on shared interests but on shared values – particularly commitment to peaceful development and cooperation in accordance with international law.

Three decades of steady progress

Over the past three decades, the partnership has matured with quiet strength and steady purpose. From the early days of diplomatic engagement to today's multifaceted cooperation, our relationship has grown through mutual understanding and practical collaboration.

Together, we have advanced infrastructure development, with Chinese companies contributing to the modernization of roads, energy facilities and industrial zones, creating new jobs and improving connectivity across the country. Our cooperation in trade and investment has opened doors for local industries and brought new technologies to the region.

Cultural and educational ties have also flourished. Through Confucius Institutes, scholarships, exchange programs and artistic collaborations, our peoples have come to know one another beyond media headlines and protocols. Today, students from Bosnia study in Chinese universities, while Chinese tourists and cultural ambassadors increasingly discover the natural beauty and heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

These milestones are not only markers of past success, but a reflection of the trust and shared values that continue to guide our partnership.

A partnership built on sovereignty and trust

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Bosnia and Herzegovina has always respected China's sovereignty, territorial integrity and firmly adhered to the one-China principle. It has endorsed various Chinese international initiatives and perspectives, including the concept of "building a community with a shared future for mankind," which is a key element of Chinese President Xi Jinping's vision.

On the other hand, China has shown consistent respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina as defined by the Dayton Peace Agreement (the 1995 peace accord between Bosnia, Serbia and Croatia to end the over three-year armed conflict in Bosnia.) Our country, with its complex constitutional structure and multi-ethnic identity, values international partners who support homegrown solutions and uphold the principles of equality and mutual benefit. In this regard, China's approach has been constructive and respectful, offering opportunities for cooperation without imposing its own development model.

As we approach three decades since signing the Dayton Peace Agreement, Bosnia and Herzegovina has made strong progress in building a stable, sovereign and democratic society. The time has come to recognize that our institutions can assume full responsibility for the country's governance. Continued international oversight through the Office of the High Representative is no longer necessary. In this regard, we welcome China's consistent position that any such appointments must respect the procedures and authority of the United Nations Security Council. This principled stance reaffirms the importance of multilateral legitimacy, national sovereignty and equal treatment of all UN member states.

Bosnia and Herzegovina places great importance on international partnerships that empower domestic governance and support solutions that emerge from within. It is vital that all international mechanisms respect legal procedures, ensure transparency and promote peace without imposing decisions. We appreciate that countries such as China uphold the principle of non-interference and emphasize the role of the United Nations as a forum for multilateral cooperation grounded in equality and respect for sovereignty.

Through its support of the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Central and Eastern European Countries framework, Bosnia and Herzegovina has engaged in meaningful cooperation that has led to real, on-the-ground results. Chinese investments in infrastructure, energy and manufacturing have helped modernize our economy and provided jobs for thousands of citizens. Our students, professionals and cultural institutions have benefited from scholarships, exchanges and joint programs that have brought our two peoples closer together.

A stretch of the Pocitelj-Zvirovici subsection, part of the pan-European Corridor Vc highway, in Capljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, September 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Vision for the next 30 years

Looking ahead, the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations offers a fresh opportunity to advance cooperation across a broad spectrum of sectors. As the world navigates new challenges and transitions, Bosnia and Herzegovina and China are committed to working together to unlock shared opportunities for growth and development.

We see great potential for joint action in green and digital transformation. With China's technological leadership and Bosnia and Herzegovina's natural and human resources, both countries can drive innovation in renewable energy, smart infrastructure and sustainable industry. As the world shifts toward a low-carbon future, we aim to collaborate on solar, wind and hydroelectric projects, digital platforms for smart governance, and environmentally responsible technologies. By aligning our strategies with global climate goals, this partnership can help foster a more resilient, future-ready economy while delivering tangible benefits to our citizens.

People-to-people exchange is another key pillar of our friendship. We welcome more educational and cultural partnerships, language learning, tourism cooperation and youth exchange programs that deepen mutual understanding and enrich both societies. The visa-free entry policy between our two countries further encourages travel, study and business engagement, making it easier than ever for citizens to explore opportunities and build personal connections.

Trade and investment will also continue to grow. We aim to attract diversified, high-value investment into industries such as energy, logistics, food production and technology where Chinese expertise and Bosnian potential can complement each other.

On the global stage, Bosnia and Herzegovina shares China's commitment to building a fairer and more inclusive international system. We support multilateralism that values the voices of all nations and encourages cooperation to meet the aspirations of the people.

The next chapter in BiH-China relations will be shaped by common goals, strong foundations and mutual respect. Together, we can build a future of stability, progress and shared prosperity.

Sinisa Berjan istheAmbassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the People's Republic of China.