Minister Helez with UK Parliament Delegation on Strengthening Defence Cooperation

(Patria) - A meeting was held today at the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo between Defence Minister Zukan Helez and a delegation of the UK Parliament, consisting of Paul Waugh, Reg Pula and Philippe Lefevre.

Helez welcomed the guests, emphasising that the presence of parliamentary representatives from one of the most influential democratic states in the world testifies to a shared commitment to building stable and long-term relations between our countries.

During the meeting, discussions were held on joint projects and initiatives that contribute to strengthening the defence system of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Special mention was made of the appointment of Special Advisor for Defence System Reform Holly Campbell-Stevens, as well as cooperation on drafting a new implementation plan for the period 2025–2028, within the framework of the "Women, Peace and Security" (WPS) initiative.

Also considered was the United Kingdom's support in the area of human security through the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Training and the renovation of the facility at the "Mika Bosnić" barracks in Manjača for the needs of the Peace Support Operations Training Centre (PSOTC).

Continued assistance from the UK Government was also highlighted through its role as the lead nation in the Air Medical Evacuation (AIRMEDEVAC) project and within the NATO Defence Capacity Building Initiative (DCBI).

The great importance of UK support in the field of education was emphasised, as numerous cadets and members of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina have completed prestigious military academies and schools in that country, while new participants have already been sent for training.

Helez informed the guests that the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to implement the Development and Modernisation Plan of the AF BiH 2017-2027, along with activities within the Reform Programme and the Planning and Review Process (PARP), with a total estimated value of 25–30 million euros.

Furthermore, Helez informed the UK Parliament delegation about the malignant influence of the Russian Federation at various levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He emphasised that this influence is reflected in political, economic and security segments, and highlighted the importance of continued international support and cooperation in strengthening the resilience of state institutions and preserving the country's stability.

- Such visits are not merely formal meetings; they are proof that Bosnia and Herzegovina has sincere and reliable friends who understand our strategic importance, but also our potential as a stable and secure partner in the Euro-Atlantic community - stated Helez.

In his address, Paul Waugh praised the contribution of the AF BiH in international missions, with special reference to their engagement in Afghanistan, highlighting the professionalism, dedication and effectiveness of their actions.

He also expressed full support from the United Kingdom for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and emphasised the importance of international cooperation in preserving the stability of the region.

Waugh particularly expressed strong support for initiatives aimed at reducing the malignant influence of the Russian Federation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stressing the importance of joint efforts in strengthening the resilience of the state and its institutions.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Helez thanked the delegation members for their visit and the continued support of the United Kingdom in strengthening the defence capacities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and their visit represents a strong message of support for Bosnia and Herzegovina and a confirmation of the excellent bilateral relations our country has with the United Kingdom.