Slovak soldiers to strengthen operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Defence Ministry is planning to strengthen the EUFOR-ALTHEA operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is aimed at stabilising the Western Balkans region, declared the ministry following an informal meeting of EU defence ministers in Vienna. "In this case we won't increase the number of soldiers, but the change will involve the current mandate, with two of our professional soldiers to serve within the exploration and secret intelligence activities," said Defence Minister Peter Gajdoš (SNS). About 600 members of armed forces from 24 countries are currently present in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Slovakia has contributed with 43 soldiers. EU defence ministers at the session also discussed the meeting of the PESCO requirements, a new European Peace Facility proposal, a tool for funding common projects as well as the future of the Sophia operation in the Mediterranean.