Skopje, 27 November 2025 (MIA) - Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski visited on Thursday members of the Macedonian contingent participating in the European Union’s military operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, EUFOR-ALTHEA.

According to the Ministry of Defense, at a meeting with EUFOR Commander Major General Florin-Marian Barbu, the Minister highlighted the importance of the operation for the security of the region, noting that the country has been continuously contributing for two decades to the European Union’s efforts to ensure a secure and stable Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

At the meeting with the Macedonian soldiers, Misajlovski congratulated them on their “high level of professionalism, engagement, and readiness,” stressing that their work is the best example of the partnership and trust between the countries contributing to the operation.

“I am proud of each one of our army members participating in the ALTHEA operation. Your contribution is not only in service of peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina – it is a strong message about our commitment as a country and our dedication to European security policies and about our role as a credible partner in international missions,” Misajlovski said. 

The Minister stressed that the country will continue to actively contribute to regional security by participating in the EU’s operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and NATO’s mission in Kosovo.

Members of the Macedonian Army have been participating in the EUFOR-ALTHEA operation since 2006. At present, 33 Macedonian soldiers are involved in the operation. 

At the “Butmir” base in Sarajevo, Misajlovski laid flowers at the memorial dedicated to the members of the Macedonian Army who lost their lives in the helicopter accident near Blace in Katlanovo, and who were part of this operation.

Photo: Defense Ministry