Sarajevo  - Prime Minister Nikola Spiric said Tuesday that the start of talks on visa-free access for Bosnia-Herzegovina citizens to EU nations is another step towards European integration.

"The liberalization of visa requirements with the EU is good news for the citizens of Bosnia-Herzegovina, especially businessmen," Spiric told reporters in Sarajevo.

The EU opened the visa talks on Monday, presenting at the same time measures to be taken by Bosnia to achieve the goal of visa-free travel for all its citizens.

The measures include the introduction of biometric passports, ensuring borders are properly protected and tougher measures against illegal immigration and organized crime.

Under an agreement with the EU in 2007, students, journalists, cultural workers, sportsmen and people in need of medical treatment have enjoyed simplified visa requirements since the start of this year.

Spiric also confirmed that the country is to sign a pre-membership agreement with the EU - a so-called Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) - on June 16.

"This is a process that will further strengthen the European idea in Bosnia-Herzegovina and send a strong message about the country's European perspective," the premier said. (dpa)