Addressing officers and soldiers from EUFOR troops during a visit to Sarajevo, European Council President António Costa stressed that their engagement in Operation Althea is essential, not only for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also for the security of the entire region. He stressed that they help preserve peace and support a safe and stable environment in this country, which has come a long way since the war.
“The EUFOR mission is a key part of the European Union’s Common Security and Defence Policy. Through your presence, the EU is showing that it can act together to protect peace, promote cooperation and uphold our common values. You are the face of this commitment and represent the best that Europe can achieve when united. Your mission demonstrates the importance the EU and its partners attach to security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region,” said Costa.
He stated that Althea is the longest-running EU Common Security and Defence Policy Operation, and that the mission has been developing since the beginning of the Operation, with the participation of partners from the Western Balkans, including Albania and North Macedonia, not only in this mission, but also in CSDP missions outside Europe, and other partners such as Turkey.
“Peace can never be taken for granted. It requires constant work and that is what you do every day. The goal is not just to preserve the peace of the past. The goal is to build the peace of the future. We want to see Bosnia and Herzegovina move from the Dayton phase to the Brussels phase, from post-war recovery to full European integration. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a European country with a European future, and your mission helps to keep that door open. But the path to the European Union is not easy. It requires leadership, it requires responsibility and unity,” said Costa.
He told political leaders in BiH that they have a key role in preserving peace and security and that they have a duty to defend the country’s constitutional order, ensure respect for the rule of law and protect the interests of citizens.
The President of the European Council believes that the best path for Bosnia and Herzegovina is progress on the European path, and that the European Union is ready to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to EU membership.
“That is why your role here on the ground remains extremely important. Your presence provides diplomacy with room to operate and instills security for those working on reforms, and sends a clear message that the EU is serious about protecting peace and defending our values. On behalf of the European Union, I would like to thank you once again for your efforts, professionalism and service. Take care and continue to carry out this important mission with pride,” said Costa, the EU Delegation to BiH announced.
Photo: EU Delegation in BiH
