Helez at exercise in Bužim: Bosnia and Herzegovina has the capacity to protect its citizens

(Patria) - BiH Minister of Defence Zukan Helez attended the methodological-demonstration exercise "Earthquake 2025" held in Bužim today.

Addressing those present, he emphasized the importance of the readiness of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina to effectively respond to natural and other disasters in cooperation with other state institutions.

He recalled numerous examples of assistance provided to the civilian population, from extinguishing fires and removing consequences of floods and snowfalls, to engagement after the earthquake in Turkey and floods in Slovenia.



- Today, we all witnessed the successful implementation of the combined civil-military exercise 'Earthquake 2025', during which all participants demonstrated readiness, determination, and capability to jointly respond to various modern challenges.

I am particularly pleased by the fact that we have confirmed that Bosnia and Herzegovina, in addition to the Armed Forces, has other bodies, institutions, and agencies that are capable and ready to effectively respond to threats and disasters that could endanger the security and well-being of its citizens - said Helez.

He states that one of the key tasks of the BiH Armed Forces is to provide assistance to civilian authorities in responding to natural and other catastrophes and disasters.



- Members of the BiH Armed Forces, in addition to their basic military duties, always stand ready to help their citizens - whether it is floods, fires, or, as in the case of this exercise, an earthquake - Helez pointed out.

He emphasized that such exercises strengthen civil-military cooperation, test capacities, and improve coordination of all competent services in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

- I would like to warmly thank today's hosts and the organizer of the exercise, the Mayor of Bužim Municipality, noting that I believe you serve as an example to other local communities.



Today, I leave Bužim even more convinced that Bosnia and Herzegovina has the capacities and capabilities to ensure the security and well-being of its citizens - concluded Minister Helez.