SARAJEVO, April 14 (Xinhua) -- Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen reaffirmed Austria's strong support for Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH)'s European integration during an official visit from April 13 to April 16.

During a meeting on Tuesday with members of the leadership of BiH's Parliamentary Assembly, both sides highlighted close bilateral ties rooted in deep historical, political, economic and cultural links.

Van der Bellen stressed that the future of the Western Balkans lies in the European Union, noting Austria is among the strongest advocates of EU enlargement.

He urged Bosnian lawmakers to advance reforms needed to open accession negotiations and deliver tangible benefits to citizens, particularly younger generations.

He underscored strong ties across all sectors, adding that Austria is the second-largest investor in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with more than 200 companies operating in the country.

Calling for political progress, he urged leaders to complete the final reforms required to launch accession talks, stressing that a stable BiH is vital for both regional and European stability. While acknowledging that compromise can be difficult, he encouraged policymakers to act with courage. ■