Using funds secured by a loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Bosnia and Herzegovina government has announced four separate tenders for telecommunications equipment. The tenders are for supplying pipes and manholes, copper cables and cable accessories, instruments for the operation and maintenance of a telecommunication system, and cables and network accessories. The other agreements were signed by President Tudjman and Alija Izetbegovic, the Muslim member of the joint presidency. These firms are seeking quotes to determine an appropriate loan request. Although there is the possibility that the most favorable quote received by the Bosnian Firm may lead to a procurement opportunity for the quoting company, there are no guarantees.
Any bid provided by a U.S. company is done so at the company's risk and expense.
Furthermore, due to loan applicant confidentiality, the identity of the Bosnian enterprises cannot be revealed until after the loan has beenapproved. Once collected, the bids will be forwarded to the appropriate authority in Bosnia. Prime Minister Drnovsek met with President Bill Clinton, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and National Security Advisor Sandy Berger. Minister of Economic Relations and Development Marjan Senjur met with Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Ambassador David L. Aaron to discuss commercial issues between the U.S. and Slovenia. The trade delegation accompanying the Prime Minister met with the U.S.-Slovenian business community in New York City and Cleveland.