U.S. Embassy on Defense Review: This is an opportunity for BiH to strengthen its ties with NATO

The U.S. Embassy congratulates the BiH Presidency and the Minister of Defense on the completion of the Defense Review document. Although its development took years, we welcome the spirit of cooperation that led to the development of a framework for the future of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will balance the number of soldiers, reduce the number of prospective immovable military assets, and profile an action plan for the modernization of the army.

- The Defense Review is a living document that can be revisited and revised in accordance with the wishes of the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to continue activities on reducing surplus ammunition, demining the country, training and equipping soldiers to assist in natural disasters, both domestically and in missions abroad, in order to eventually become modernized forces capable of partnering with other nations.

With the completion of the Defense Review document, the real work on its implementation is just beginning. This is an opportunity for BiH to strengthen its ties with NATO and work with regional partners. We call on leaders in BiH, in the coming year, to work on the next steps in registering military assets - including Han Pijesak in accordance with the court decision - and to continue seeking opportunities for cooperation with NATO allies within the framework of preparations for the activation of the MAP (Membership Action Plan) – the U.S. Embassy statement reads.