EBRD marks 30 years of partnership with Bosnia and Herzegovina

• The EBRD has been a partner to Bosnia and Herzegovina since 1996, playing a central role in supporting stability through sustained investment, reform support and policy dialogue
• The Bank has invested more than €3.4 billion in over 260 projects in the country, including flagship infrastructure such as the Corridor Vc motorway, helping to strengthen connectivity, energy security and financial-sector resilience
• Looking ahead, the EBRD will focus on boosting private‑sector competitiveness, deepening regional integration and promoting the sustainable use of resources to underpin long‑term stability and inclusive growth

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) marked 30 years of operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1996-2026) at an anniversary event in Sarajevo on 12 May, bringing together national and international partners to reflect on the country’s achievements and outline priorities for the future.

Nihad Uk, Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton, HE Luigi Soreca, Ambassador of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Matteo Patrone EBRD Vice President of Banking spoke at the event.

Mr Nihad Uk, Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton said: “Thirty years of EBRD’s work in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a testament to a partnership that delivers real change. With €3.45 billion invested since 1996, the Bank has become a key pillar of our country’s infrastructure and economic development. In Sarajevo Canton alone, this cooperation is driving a green and transport transformation, supported by €165 million under the Green Cities programme and additional financing from partners. Together, we are building a city that is easier to move in, better to live in and cleaner to breathe.”

Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH, Ambassador Luigi Soreca said: “For three decades, the European Union and the EBRD have been strong and reliable partners of Bosnia and Herzegovina, working together to create more opportunities and better living conditions for all citizens of this beautiful country. We have shown that partnership delivers concrete results. From modern transport, energy infrastructure and digitalisation to support for businesses, jobs and local communities. Today’s anniversary is a celebration of what we have achieved together, but also a reminder of our continued commitment to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path towards a more stable and prosperous future.”

Matteo Patrone, EBRD Vice President said: “For 30 years, the EBRD has stood alongside Bosnia and Herzegovina as a reliable partner, helping to bring stability to the country through investment, reform and cooperation. As we look ahead, our focus remains on strengthening the private sector, deepening regional integration and supporting the sustainable use of resources to secure lasting stability and inclusive growth.”

Since beginning operations in the country in 1996, the EBRD has played a central role in bringing stability to Bosnia and Herzegovina by supporting post‑war recovery, institutional reform and long‑term economic transition. Over three decades, the Bank has invested more than €3.4 billion across 266 projects, with a strong focus on building modern, reliable infrastructure, strengthening the financial sector and supporting private‑sector growth.

Flagship investments have included the Corridor Vc motorway, the largest infrastructure project in the country’s history, to which the EBRD has committed more than €1 billion, significantly improving regional connectivity and trade integration.

The Bank has also been a key partner in the energy sector, supporting power utilities, renewable energy projects and energy efficiency programmes that underpin security of supply and sustainable resource use.

Alongside this, the EBRD has worked closely with local banks to expand access to finance for small and medium‑sized enterprises, women‑ and youth‑led businesses, and households, strengthening financial stability and resilience.

Together, these investments have helped anchor macroeconomic stability, modernise key sectors and position Bosnia and Herzegovina for deeper regional integration and long‑term, sustainable growth.

Looking ahead, the EBRD’s activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina will focus on boosting private‑sector competitiveness, advancing regional integration and promoting the sustainable use of resources, ensuring continued stability and long‑term prosperity.