BiH to Host NATO Partnership 360 Symposium in October

(Patria) - Chairman of the Presidency of BiH Denis Bećirović spoke with the new Commander of the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo, Brigadier General Matthew A. Valas.

During the conversation, Bećirović emphasized the importance of the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo's support for strengthening the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, continuing defense and security sector reforms, as well as preserving security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Among other things, he expressed readiness for joint work on the implementation of the Reform Program of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the coming period. The significance of increasing professional exchange between NATO and Bosnia and Herzegovina was also highlighted.

Bećirović pointed to the successful and continuous cooperation to date aimed at improving the capabilities of the Armed Forces of BiH to protect the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina and strengthen democratic control, transparency, and accountability of defense institutions.



The interlocutors stated that the intensive cooperation and partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and NATO continue. Among other things, this is confirmed by the fact that Bosnia and Herzegovina will host the NATO Partnership 360 Symposium in October this year.

The Commander of the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo expressed NATO's commitment to lasting peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

He stated that he will continue with activities aimed at supporting the Armed Forces of BiH in maintaining high standards of training, promoting democracy and the rule of law, as well as creating conditions for investment and economic development.

Bećirović confirmed a firm commitment to intensifying the NATO integration process, in accordance with the Constitution and the Law on Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He reminded that the key strategic goals of Bosnia and Herzegovina are full membership in the EU and NATO.

He emphasized that joining NATO is a common interest of Bosnia and Herzegovina and NATO. He also said that it would strengthen the security of Southeast Europe, and provide an additional incentive for attracting foreign direct investment and creating new jobs.

During the conversation, it was emphasized that the Armed Forces of BiH have successfully and actively contributed to NATO peacekeeping operations, following the principle of NATO interoperability, as well as responding to natural disasters and crises.