Sarajevo (Fena) – This week, a parade was held at the Butmir base to celebrate the twenty-year presence of European Union Forces (EUFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
EUFOR, which oversees the military aspects of the Dayton Peace Agreement in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has previously operated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, and the Central African Republic. They assumed responsibilities from NATO’s Stabilization Force (SFOR) on December 2, 2004.
In addition to the parade, a ceremony took place at the House of Armed Forces in Sarajevo to commemorate EUFOR’s two decades in the country.
During the event, EUFOR commander Major General László Sticz highlighted the motto he selected for his command year of the EUFOR Althea mission in 2024: “Still forward, together.”
– This motto not only captures EUFOR’s journey over the last twenty years but also reflects our shared vision for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is firmly rooted in the European community – Sticz stated.
He noted that operation Althea has become a symbol of Europe’s steadfast commitment to peace, stability, and reconciliation, evolving from direct peacekeeping to empowering local authorities over the years.
– The phrase “Still forward, together” also signifies EUFOR’s lasting dedication to the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Liaison and Observation Teams, active in various communities across the nation, are central to EUFOR’s mission. Whether responding to floods, forest fires, heavy snowfall, or providing support during the COVID-19 pandemic, EUFOR stands alongside Bosnia and Herzegovina in times of need – said Sticz.
He remarked that this occasion prompts not only reflection on the past but also a look toward the future.
– As Bosnia and Herzegovina advances on its journey toward European integration, the EUFOR Mission serves as a reminder of the values that underpin the European Union: unity, democracy, and peace. “Still forward, together” is more than a slogan; it is a commitment to continue moving forward in unison toward a Bosnia and Herzegovina marked by peace, prosperity, and full EU membership – Sticz added.
Luigi Soreca, Head of the European Union Delegation and Special Representative of the EU in Bosnia and Herzegovina, acknowledged the significant contributions of commanders from the UK, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Austria throughout the EUFOR mission’s twenty-year history.
– EUFOR Althea represents a vital EU contribution to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path toward EU integration – emphasized Soreca.
As part of the 20th-anniversary celebrations for the EUFOR mission, soldiers participated in a parade at the Butmir base, and last week an exhibition was held at the European House in Sarajevo, showcasing significant moments from the mission’s history since 2004. (04.12.)
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