Brussels: The EU on Friday urged the rejection of "genocide denial" and the glorification of convicted war criminals in advance of the 31st anniversary of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre.

According to Anadolu Agency, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos issued a joint statement paying tribute to "over 8,300 Bosniak men and boys" who were killed during the Srebrenica genocide 31 years ago. The statement conveyed empathy for the families of the victims and highlighted the ongoing grief of those still in search of missing loved ones, expressing solidarity with survivors affected in July 1995.

Kallas and Kos described the Srebrenica genocide as one of the darkest episodes in Europe's history, emphasizing its significance as a reminder of the importance of building peaceful societies, safeguarding human life and dignity, and upholding EU values. The officials also referenced the UN General Assembly's designation of July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.

The statement unequivocally rejected genocide denial, revisionism, and the glorification of convicted war criminals within Europe. Kallas and Kos called upon leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the region to prioritize responsibility over division and dialogue over confrontation, urging support for efforts to identify the remaining victims.

The EU reiterated its commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's European future as a sovereign, united, multiethnic, and democratic nation.