The inauguration of the new Herzegovina Bridge which extends nearly 1km across the Neretva River, along with the Počitelj-Zvirovići subsection of the highway, marks a major infrastructure achievement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As part of Corridor Vc, this important transportation route will improve travel times, increase traffic safety, and strengthen economic relations. In line with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy, the project has been financed with a €5 million EU grant under the Western Balkans Investment Fund, as well as a €105 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB Global), allocated to the entire Počitelj-Bijača section.

“Together with all partners in this project, we are delighted to see the completion of this pivotal section along Corridor Vc, which creates a direct highway link between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and further to the rest of the European Union. As one of the largest in the region, this impressive new bridge and related road infrastructure will generate new economic opportunities for people in both countries by accelerating trade, commuting and travel. The EIB continues to be a reliable partner for the Western Balkans with over €15 billion invested to date, laying the foundation for improved connectivity and prosperity in the region,” remarked EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot.

The Počitelj-Zvirovići sub-section includes an 11.7 km-long motorway, a tollbooth interchange with access roads, a regional junction, three viaducts, and a tunnel. The main feature is the Herzegovina Bridge which rises over 100 metres and carries four highway lanes within a single, unified structure, making it unique and one of the largest bridges in the region.

Stefano Ellero, Head of Cooperation at the EU Office to Bosnia and Herzegovina, underlined that the completion of the bridge is a symbol of progress, cooperation and the lasting partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union. “It gives me great joy to see the official opening of the Herzegovina Bridge today. The bridge is more than just a piece of infrastructure- it symbolises the power of connection, linking communities and countries across the Neretva River. It shows what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal for a better future. This bridge will enable faster and safer travel for people and goods, boost business and tourism and drive regional development,” said Mr Ellero.

Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina Nermin Nikšić added: “We are committed to taking decisive steps towards joining the EU, and this is one of the crucial projects on that path. By constructing the corridor through Bosnia and Herzegovina, we are integrating into European communication, economic, and broader societal flows. The 11 km section that we are opening today holds special symbolic and practical significance.”

Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Borjana Krišto stated: “This bridge is not only beautiful, but also serves a unique purpose. It is a key link between the north and south  of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as a connection to the EU via Croatia, enabling transport connectivity that will ensure multiple developments in the economy and industry.”

Denis Lasić, Director of JP Autoceste FBIH and host of the inauguration ceremony stated that the construction of the motorway was a challenging task, but it also provided a significant economic boost for the country.

Corridor Vc is a major Pan-European transport route that stretches from Budapest, Hungary, through Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Adriatic port of Ploče in Croatia. The corridor plays a vital role in facilitating trade and transportation across Southeast Europe, connecting key markets and promoting regional integration.