Minister of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zukan Helez, along with his deputies Slaven Galić and Aleksandar Goganović, welcomed the French Ambassador to BiH, Francois Delmas, during an official visit.
The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral military cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and France. It also served as a farewell for Brigadier Pierre Desjeux, the outgoing non-resident French military attaché.
Both sides expressed satisfaction with the current state of cooperation and voiced a shared desire to deepen it further. They also exchanged views on the broader European security landscape, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the conflicts in the Middle East.
Minister Helez highlighted France’s vital role in supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations. He welcomed the recent informal Franco-German “non-paper” outlining potential EU measures against those threatening BiH’s sovereignty and constitutional integrity.
“France is a key partner, especially within EUFOR’s strategic reserve in BiH. We’re grateful for your swift deployment of troops when needed,” Helez said. He also expressed hope for stronger cooperation between the military industries of both countries.
Deputy Minister Galić thanked Brigadier Desjeux for his contribution to strengthening military ties between BiH and France, and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Deputy Minister Goganović affirmed that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path is unequivocal and without alternative. He noted that while EUFOR acknowledges a political crisis in the country, there is no security crisis. The way forward, he stressed, is through constructive political dialogue within the framework of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
“A stable Balkans means a stable Europe, and that’s why regional cooperation is essential,” Goganović stated, praising the positive relationship with EUFOR.
Wrapping up the meeting, Ambassador Delmas reaffirmed France’s support: “We share a vision of a united regional future. Backing Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European journey is a priority for us. We stand with you.”
