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Sarajevo (Fena) – This week, a parade of European Union Forces EUFOR soldiers was held in Butmir base, marking twenty years of their presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
EUFOR or European Union Forces is the name for the military in Bosnia and Herzegovina overseeing the military implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. EUFOR also operated in DR Congo, Chad, and the Central African Republic. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, they succeeded NATO’s SFOR on December 2, 2004.
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of EUFOR’s presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a ceremony was also held in the House of Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo.
In his address to numerous guests, EUFOR commander Major General László Sticz said that the theme of the event is the motto he chose for his year of command of the EUFOR Althea mission in 2024, which is “Still forward, together”.
– I am convinced that this motto encompasses not only the essence of EUFOR’s path over two decades but also the joint vision we have for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina – a future firmly anchored in the European family – Sticz emphasized.
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.
– The motto “Still forward, together” also speaks of EUFOR’s enduring commitment to the people in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Liaison and Observation 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 most needed – said Sticz.
He added that on this occasion, we not only reflect on the past, but it is also an opportunity to look into the future.
– As Bosnia and Herzegovina progresses on its path towards European integration, the EUFOR Mission serves as a reminder of the values upon which the European Union is founded – unity, democracy, and peace. “Still forward, together” is not just a slogan, it is a pledge. A pledge to continue on this path, hand in hand, towards a Bosnia and Herzegovina living in peace, prosperity, and full EU membership – added Sticz.
The Head of the European Union Delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Special Representative of the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina Luigi Soreca said that during their twenty-year mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, notable commanders from the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Austria had a key role in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress.
– EUFOR Althea represents a key contribution of the EU in supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to EU integration – emphasized Soreca.
As part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the EUFOR mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a parade of soldiers was conducted at the Butmir base, and last week the EUFOR Mission organized an exhibition at the European House in Sarajevo showcasing the most interesting moments of the mission from 2004 to the present. (04.12.)