World Health Organisation (WHO) officials praised Bosnia for its timely response to the coronavirus crisis the real reason the country was well prepared was the discipline its citizens showed, the Prime Minister of Bosnia’s Federation (FBiH) region said on Wednesday.

As the first COVID-19 cases emerged in early March, authorities at all government levels in Bosnia began introducing a series of measures to contain the virus. This included temporary closing down all non-essential shops and public transportation, a complete ban on movement for the elderly and minors and curfews.

“We understand the criticism we are facing as the government these days, we understand the concerns people have and we are doing the best we can. The report by the World Health Organisation, the highest authority on that subject, is proof that we are committed to the maximum,” Fadil Novalic said.

He said that, while the praise coming from WHO is encouraging, caution is still necessary as it “saved us from the worst scenarios.”

“Although WHO officials spoke about the merits of the government, I would like to draw attention to the fact that the this was the result of the responsibility and the disciplined approach of citizens who obey recommendations and instructions,” he said, as he thanked Bosnia’s citizens.