Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius concluded a two-day visit to the Balkans on Tuesday, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to peace and stability in the region. His stop in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, included meetings with government officials and representatives of the international community, including High Representative Christian Schmidt.
Pistorius’ visit highlighted the ongoing German contribution to the European Union’s stabilization mission in Bosnia, known as EUFOR Althea. Currently, around 30 German troops are stationed in the country, playing a crucial role in monitoring the fragile peace established by the 1995 Dayton Agreement. Their mission involves conducting patrols, engaging with the local population and institutions, and compiling reports to help maintain stability and prevent conflict.
“We want to prevent Russia from causing additional crises, destabilizing, or abusing this region to expand its influence,” Pistorius stated during his visit, emphasizing Germany’s strong stance against any external attempts to disrupt peace in the Western Balkans.
Following his discussions in Sarajevo, Pistorius traveled to Pristina, Kosovo, on Monday, where he met with Kosovan officials and reiterated Germany’s support for the country’s Euro-Atlantic integration aspirations.