BiH Minister of Defense, Zekerijah Osmić, received the Ambassador of Austria to BiH Donatus Köck, and accompanied by the military attaché of Austria in BiH, Brigadier General Andreas Rotter.
During this cordial meeting, the two emphasized the importance of cooperation and support of Austria to BiH’s path towards euro-atlantic integration.
Cooperation in the sphere of defense was highlighted, and hope was expressed that cooperation will continue.
The Minister of Defense stressed the contribution of Austria in the area of its international presence in BiH, through the role of the High Representative in BiH, the Commander of EUFOR in BiH and the participation of soldiers composed of the Austrian armed forces in an effort to maintain peace in BiH.
Minister Osmić made particular mention of the significant level of foreign investments in BiH from Austria, as well as other forms of assistance offered by the friendly country.
Ambassador Köck stressed the importance that stabilization of the political situation has for BiH, the entire region and Europe as a whole, and he expressed his hope that BiH will follow the path of its neighbors on the path to EU integration.
At the meeting the successful reforms of the defense sector was emphasized, and it was mentioned that the Ministry of Defense and armed forces are prepared to, as long as there is political will, to help with the registration of 63 military sites, which is the only remaining condition for the activation of an Action Plan for full NATO membership.
