Hurtić with Commander Fronda: Security and Migration in Focus of Cooperation!

(Patria) - Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina Sevlid Hurtić received today in an inaugural visit the newly appointed EUFOR commander, Major General Maurizio Fronda, who visited the Ministry accompanied by a delegation. The meeting was also attended by Dario Šegrt, Head of the Department for Status Issues and Diaspora Information within the Ministry.

During the meeting, discussions were held on current security and migration trends, with a special focus on global developments and their impact on Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as on strengthening inter-institutional cooperation and information exchange.

Major General Fronda emphasized that EUFOR continuously monitors the security situation, including war developments and migration flows, and is in constant communication with domestic institutions and international partners, including FRONTEX. It was highlighted that Bosnia and Herzegovina is recognized as a transit country.

„EUFOR carefully monitors the security situation and migration flows, and remains committed to cooperation with the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We pay special attention to challenges such as radicalization and so-called ‘lone wolves’, especially in sensitive periods such as election years,“ said Fronda.

Minister Hurtić emphasized that migration is one of the key global challenges, noting that a large number of people leave their homes in search of a better life, often passing through countries like Greece and Bulgaria before arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He particularly pointed out the issue of human trafficking and the activities of organized criminal groups.

„Migration is a complex global challenge, but the activities of criminal groups that profit from people's misfortune are particularly concerning. Our focus must be on strengthening security, but also on preserving a humane approach,“ emphasized Hurtić.

The interlocutors also discussed broader security and social issues, and highlighted the importance of preserving stability and peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as strengthening trust among citizens.

During the meeting, possibilities for improving cooperation through joint activities were also considered, including a planned meeting with religious leaders scheduled for June 9, 2026, in Butmir. Minister Hurtić supported this initiative, emphasizing the importance of including citizens in processes of dialogue and mutual understanding.

At the beginning of the meeting, in a friendly atmosphere, the interlocutors also reflected on Bosnia and Herzegovina's qualification for the World Cup in football, where Major General Fronda, although Italian, extended congratulations to Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also to Italy, noting that both teams showed exceptional play and sportsmanship.

The interlocutors agreed that continuous cooperation and information exchange are key to preserving a safe and stable environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina.