A statement issued after a two-day meeting the Steering Board held in Brussels with political leaders from Bosnia said the country was now expected to actively cooperate with the Hague war crimes tribunal and that this, apart from arresting fugitives, also entailed destroying criminal networks which help them hide.
In discussing the situation in Bosnia, the political directors of foreign ministries of PIC member countries concluded the police reform must be completed in accordance with an October 2005 agreement as otherwise Bosnia would not be able to sign a Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the European Union.
The political parties which won the confidence of constituents at October 1 elections were called on to form coalitions as soon as possible and form a new government which would continue to implement reforms.
The newly elected authorities are expected to take every measure so that the constitutional reforms agreed by six political parties in March could finally be adopted in parliament.
The PIC Steering Board underlined that the international community would not allow any undermining of the Dayton peace agreement or Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement also said that due to concern about the current situation in Bosnia and the region, a previously announced decision to close down the Office of the High Representative would be reconsidered in February 2007 when, depending on developments, it would be decided whether the OHR would remain open after June 30.
The PIC comprises representatives of the most influential Western countries and Russia.