The Minister of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zukan Helez, accompanied by his deputies Slaven Galić and Aleksandar Goganović, received today on an inaugural visit the newly appointed German Ambassador to BiH, Alfred Grannas, and Colonel Marc Abendroth, the German Military Attaché.
Strengthening Defence Cooperation
During the meeting, Minister Helez expressed gratitude for the continuous and substantial support provided by the Federal Republic of Germany, particularly in the areas of defence modernisation and national security.
“Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Federal Republic of Germany maintain long-standing and stable bilateral relations founded on mutual respect, partnership, and shared strategic interests. Germany is a trusted and proven partner of Bosnia and Herzegovina, contributing decisively to the modernisation of infrastructure and the enhancement of the Armed Forces’ operational capacities,” stated Minister Helez.
Infrastructure Projects and Financial Support
To date, Germany has provided more than 15 million euros in assistance for defence-related infrastructure projects across 17 locations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Rajlovac, Pazarić, Kozara, Kiseljak, and Čapljina.
New projects, valued at 7.4 million euros, will focus on the reconstruction and development of facilities in Pazarić, Čapljina, Kiseljak, and Banja Luka, reflecting the deepening cooperation between the two countries.
Education and Training Support
Germany also continues to support the education and professional development of the Armed Forces of BiH through the Military Assistance in Education Program, which enables cadets and officers to undergo training in prestigious German military academies. This initiative significantly contributes to the professionalisation and NATO/EU interoperability of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s defence structures.
Strategic Commitment to the Western Balkans
Ambassador Alfred Grannas emphasised that the new German Government remains firmly committed to the Western Balkans, with a particular focus on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Euro-Atlantic integration.
“Bosnia and Herzegovina deserves its place alongside us — in NATO and the European Union — because only through unity will we all be secure. We stand with you and will continue to do so,” said Ambassador Grannas.
