Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, stated during his two-day visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina that the current global security environment requires strong engagement and cooperation among international partners, stressing that partnerships remain a cornerstone of NATO policy.
Dragone emphasized that NATO, as an alliance of 32 member states, maintains partnerships worldwide – from Asia and Africa to the Middle East and South America – highlighting that global cooperation contributes to the overall security of the international community. He underlined that cooperation between NATO and Bosnia and Herzegovina follows the same principle.
Recalling that Bosnia and Herzegovina joined the Partnership for Peace program in 2006, Dragone noted that relations between the country and the Alliance date back even earlier. During his visit, he is scheduled to meet with the political and military leadership of BiH, further reinforcing practical cooperation.
He also confirmed that he had already held meetings with commanders of NATO Headquarters Sarajevo and EUFOR, stressing the importance of informing the public about the need for adequate investment in defense and security in light of current global developments.
“The Western Balkans holds a high place on NATO’s agenda and represents a region of strategic importance. Our commitment to stability in this region is strong and will remain so. We will not allow a security vacuum,” Dragone stated.
Deputy Minister of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slaven Galić, who led the delegation of the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces of BiH, highlighted that the presence of NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo, alongside EUFOR forces, plays a crucial role in maintaining the country’s stability and security.
Galić emphasized that security is a foundation for economic development, adding that NATO continues to invest in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s security institutions. He noted that approximately 35 million euros have been allocated through various programs within a five-year framework, including both ongoing and planned projects.
He further stressed the importance of cooperation with NATO Headquarters Sarajevo and EUFOR, pointing out the practical benefits for the Armed Forces of BiH through joint exercises, training, and activities aimed at improving operational readiness.
At the conclusion of his address, Galić reaffirmed that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains committed to NATO membership, describing it as the country’s ultimate strategic goal.
During his visit, Admiral Dragone is also expected to visit the Office of the High Representative, EUFOR Command, and NATO Headquarters Sarajevo.
