A ceremony was held was on Monday at the BiH Armed Forces Hall in Sarajevo to mark the 20th anniversary of EUFOR’s operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Addressing a large audience, EUFOR Commander Major General László Sticz said that the theme of the evening was the motto he had chosen for his year as commander of EUFOR’s Althea mission in 2024, which is “Forward, Together”.
“I am convinced that this motto captures not only the essence of EUFOR’s journey over two decades, but also the shared vision we have for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina – a future firmly anchored in the European family,” said Sticz.
He stated that Operation Althea has become a symbol of Europe’s unwavering commitment to peace, stability and reconciliation. Sticz said that over the years, EUFOR’s role has evolved from direct peacekeeping to empowering local authorities.
– “Forward, Together” also refers to EUFOR’s continued commitment to the people of BiH. Liaison and monitoring teams deployed within communities across the country are at the heart of EUFOR’s mission. From responding to devastating floods, forest fires and snowfalls to supporting communities during the Covid-19 pandemic, EUFOR stands shoulder to shoulder with Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing assistance and solidarity when needed most – said Sticz.
Tonight, he added, is not just a look back at the past, but also an opportunity to look to the future.
”As BiH progresses on its path towards European integration, the EUFOR Mission serves as a reminder of the values on which the European Union is founded – unity, democracy and peace. “Forward, together” is not just a slogan, it is a pledge. A pledge to continue on this path, hand in hand, towards a BiH that lives in peace, prosperity and is a full member of the EU,” added Sticz.
In his address, the Hungarian Minister of Defence, Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, highlighted that the EUFOR Mission is an example of successful multinational military cooperation.
He stressed that over the past two decades, this operation has not only supported peace and stability in BiH, but also demonstrated the strength of cooperation among the participating countries.
The Head of the EU Delegation to BiH and the European Union Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luigi Soreca, said that during their twenty-year mission in BiH, distinguished commanders from the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain and Austria have played a key role in the progress of BiH.
“EUFOR Althea represents a key contribution of the EU in supporting BiH on its path to EU integration,” emphasized Soreca.
Among the numerous guests, the Minister of Security, Nenad Nešić, also addressed the event, saying that the ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate important results and consider how to jointly respond to the challenges that lie ahead.
“The Ministry of Security of BiH remains steadfastly committed to cooperation with EUFOR in preserving peace and stability in our country. Stability is not just a goal, it is a basic prerequisite for the security of all citizens and the foundation for building a better future,” said Nešić.
As part of marking the 20th anniversary of the EUFOR mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a line-up of soldiers was held today at the Butmir base, and last week the EUFOR Mission hosted an exhibition at the European House in Sarajevo, showcasing the most interesting moments of the mission from 2004 to the present, Federalna writes.
Photo: EUFOR PAO OFFICE
