The Ministry of National Defense announced on Wednesday that Romania has handed over the command of the European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUFOR ALTHEA) to Italy, in a ceremony at Camp Butmir in Sarajevo attended by Secretary of State for Defense Policy, Planning and International Relations Sorin-Dan Moldovan and Deputy Chief of Defense Staff for Operations and Training Lieutenant General Iulian Berdila. EUFOR ALTHEA is the largest multinational operation in the Western Balkans, conducted under the EU's Common Security and Defense Policy.
After 12 months at the helm, Romania transferred command to Italy, with Major General Florin Marian Barbu handing over to Major General Maurizio Fronda.
"Romania's involvement in this theater of operations within EUFOR ALTHEA represented clear proof of our firm commitment to the stability of the Western Balkans," Moldovan said.
In recognition of his leadership, operational commander Lieutenant General Ludovic Pinon de Quincy awarded Barbu the EU Medal for Common Security and Defense Policy service, the Ministry of National Defense informs.
Romania's Army increased its representation by assuming leadership of the mission, which Berdila said strengthened the prestige and respect of Romanian forces within the Euro-Atlantic community. "Romania has reaffirmed its status as the main contributor to the multinational stabilization force deployed by the EU in Bosnia and Herzegovina," he emphasized.
The Ministry of National Defense mentions that, starting in May, Brigadier General Traian Magherca will serve as EUFOR ALTHEA Chief of Staff, further underscoring Romania's commitment to the Western Balkans.
Romania has provided key functions within the operation, including command of the multinational battalion capable of rapid response in support of Bosnian authorities to maintain a safe and stable environment.
Stability in the Western Balkans remains a strategic priority for Romania and for European and Euro-Atlantic security, the Ministry of national Defense underscored.
As of January 20, Romania's Air Force Detachment also handed over responsibilities for 24/7 medical evacuation, transport and reconnaissance missions to Italy's Land Forces Detachment.
Comentează