NATO and Bosnia and Herzegovina are enhancing their cooperation to bolster security and stability in the Western Balkans. Recent high-level engagements underscore NATO’s commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its Euro-Atlantic aspirations, while also addressing regional security challenges.

Key Takeaways

  • NATO reaffirms its commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
  • Practical cooperation is being boosted through defense capacity building initiatives.
  • The alliance emphasizes the importance of the Dayton Peace Agreement for regional stability.
  • NATO will not tolerate a security vacuum in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Enhanced Cooperation and Support

NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska has been actively engaged in strengthening ties with Bosnia and Herzegovina. During a visit to Sarajevo, she met with top officials, including members of the BiH Presidency, to discuss the current situation and reaffirm NATO’s unwavering support. Shekerinska emphasized that a security vacuum in Bosnia and Herzegovina would not be permitted and highlighted NATO’s backing for the EU-led Operation Althea. The Deputy Secretary General also met with members of the BiH Joint Commission for Defence and Security and its delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, underscoring the importance of dialogue and collaboration.

Defence Capacity Building Initiatives

Practical cooperation has seen tangible progress, notably through NATO’s Defence Capacity Building Package for Bosnia and Herzegovina. A recent event marked the delivery of four military police vehicles to the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a contribution facilitated by Slovenia’s leadership. This initiative aims to enhance the country’s capabilities in areas such as crisis management, cyber defense, and counter-terrorism, ensuring better interoperability with NATO forces.

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Commitment to Stability and the Dayton Agreement

NATO has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to the security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing the critical role of the Dayton Peace Agreement. The alliance has expressed concern over recent developments that could undermine the country’s constitutional order and institutional functionality. NATO officials have stressed that the Dayton Agreement is a cornerstone of stability and that the hard-won peace will not be jeopardized. The alliance remains closely aligned with its international partners, including the European Union, to ensure a secure environment.

Sources

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