SARAJEVO, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The EU peacekeeping mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUFOR) held a drill at the Butmir barracks in the capital Sarajevo.

The annual EUFOR Rapid Response exercise, involving soldiers from 22 countries, including Türkiye, demonstrated the force’s air and land capabilities and exhibited hardware and equipment.

Bosnian Defense Minister Zukan Helez, EU Delegation head Johann Sattler and Türkish Ambassador Sadik Babur Girgin witnessed the exercise.

EUFOR Commander Maj. Gen. Helmut Habermeyer said that they are strong enough to provide the necessary support to ensure a safer and more stable environment in Bosnia.

"We are ready to respond to difficulties, but military force should always be the last option,” Habermeyer added.

The exercise started on Sept. 11 across Bosnia and Herzegovina and will continue until Sept. 29.

EUFOR is a military deployment in Bosnia and Herzegovina that was established in 2004 to oversee the military implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement and ensure security in the country.

Bosnia-Herzegovina's top priorities are joining the political and economic community of European states and NATO.

*Writing by Talha Ozturk