The Minister of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zukan Helez, attended today the end of the “Quick Response 2026” exercise, which once again confirms the readiness, credibility and ability of EUFOR to respond to challenges and, in accordance with its mandate, to contribute to a safe and stable environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Such exercises have a special significance for Bosnia and Herzegovina. They are not only an indicator of military readiness, but also a clear message that preserving peace and security is the common interest of all of us.
Today’s exercise particularly demonstrated EUFOR’s ability to strengthen its composition in a short period of time and quickly transfer reserve forces to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which further confirms its readiness to react in a timely manner and respond to potential security challenges.
“As a minister, but above all as a man for whom the safety of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina is equally important, I want to emphasize that peace and security must be guaranteed throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, for every person, regardless of their national, religious or any other affiliation. EUFOR has an important role in preserving a safe and stable environment in our country. Its presence represents an important element of the security architecture of Bosnia and Herzegovina and a confirmation of the international community’s commitment to peace and stability in our country,” said Helez on this occasion.
Helez also said that the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina are a reliable and responsible partner to EUFOR in ensuring peace and security, and that the cooperation shows that by working together we can make a strong contribution to the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the security of all its citizens.
“Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not just a shared responsibility – it is our shared value and obligation to the generations to come,” Helez pointed out at the end.
As part of the “Rapid Response 2026” exercise, EUFOR forces carried out a coordinated air-ground operation in the wider area of Mostar, including the location of Ortiješ near Mostar International Airport, during which the multinational forces demonstrated the capabilities of land maneuver, airborne landing, removal of explosive devices and medical evacuation, the Public Relations Office of the MoBiH announced.
