On Thursday, 2 April, the EUFOR Commander Major General Maurizio Fronda conducted an official visit to Banja Luka, reaffirming EUFOR’s continued commitment to promoting stability and maintaining a safe and secure environment across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Central to the Major General Fronda’s visit, COM EUFOR held meaningful discussions with the President of Republika Srpska, Mr. Siniša Karan. The meeting provided an opportunity for an open and constructive exchange on the current regional and national security environment. Discussions addressed the importance of stability, respect for institutional frameworks, and continued dialogue among all stakeholders in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Major General Fronda also emphasized the importance of building domestic capacity within Bosnia and Herzegovina through the conduct of joint training with the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina. To this end, COM EUFOR outlined the importance of the upcoming ‘Combined Response 26’ exercise which will take place in Manjača whereby both EUFOR and AF BiH will work in close cooperation to enhance interoperability and capability to respond to any security situations which may arise. Both parties agreed upon the importance of national stability through the maintenance of a safe and secure environment for all citizens within Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the visit, the EUFOR Commander also had engagements with both local and entity level leadership, meeting both the Mayor of Banja Luka Mr. Draško Stanivuković and Minister of Internal Affairs of Republika Srpska Mr. Željko Budimir. These discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between EUFOR and local and regional authorities, with a particular emphasis on supporting stability, encouraging dialogue, and addressing issues of mutual concern. Both sides recognised the importance of sustained engagement and partnership in building resilient relationships within communities and ensuring long-term peace across the region.
In addition, Major General Fronda also had the opportunity to meet with Ambassador Tamás Magda, Head of the Regional Office of the High Representative in Banja Luka. Both COM EUFOR and Ambassador Magda discussed the importance of continued cooperation amongst international partners in supporting the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to enhance their capacity and support stability across Bosnia and Herzegovina in line with the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Concluding his engagements, COM EUFOR met with EUFOR personnel serving at the LOT (Liaison and Observation Team) House in Banja Luka. LOT Houses represent a cornerstone of EUFOR’s operational approach, enabling continuous, on-the-ground interaction with local communities, civil society, and political representatives. Through regular engagement and observation, these teams contribute to EUFOR’s situational awareness while fostering trust, transparency, and cooperation at the local level. The Commander commended the professionalism, cultural understanding, and dedication of the personnel, highlighting their critical role in supporting the mission’s objectives.
Throughout the visit, the EUFOR Commander reiterated the mission’s enduring commitment to supporting the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina in maintaining peace and stability. He emphasised EUFOR’s role as an impartial and credible partner, working to build domestic capacity and reinforce a secure environment for all citizens. Speaking during the visit, the EUFOR Commander stated:
“EUFOR remains fully committed to supporting a safe and secure environment for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our presence, and particularly the work of our Liaison and Observation Teams, reflects our dedication to engaging with communities, listening to local perspectives, and working in partnership with institutions at all levels. Stability is built through cooperation, and EUFOR will continue to play its part in that collective effort.”
These engagements underscore EUFOR’s continued engagement across all levels of society and governance, highlighting its role in promoting cooperation, reinforcing stability, and supporting the long-term peace and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
